Organizers
IRCICA (OIC) in cooperation with University of Amar Telidji and international partners.
Background & Objectives
The Winter School strengthens hands-on capacity in the conservation and documentation of earthen vernacular heritage while transmitting traditional construction techniques (adobe and rammed earth, earth–lime plasters, compatible repairs, stabilization and preventive maintenance). Training is led by a cross-regional faculty from Spain (UPM / Traditional Building Cultures Foundation), Italy (Roma Tre), Türkiye (Mimar Sinan Güzel Sanatlar Üniversitesi MSGSÜ Istanbul)
the USA (University of New Mexico), and Algeria (University of Amar Telidji Laghouat; and), aligning with UNESCO/ICOMOS good practice. Participants will apply field methods and interoperable digital workflows (structured capture, photogrammetry, scan registration, HBIM basics, metadata/paradata) to produce standardized documentation packages and concise conservation notes that directly support local partners and authorities.
Sites & Focus Areas
Field activities will be distributed across selected ksour and historic quarters in the Laghouat–Ghardaïa corridor. Exact access is subject to permits and local coordination. Indicative sites include:
• Ksar Aïn Madhi, Ksar Tadjemout, Ksar Taouiala, (Laghouat Province)
• Ghardaïa & M’Zab Valley context (UNESCO World Heritage)
Methodology
On-site training combining thematic mini-lectures, hands-on exercises, site visits, and fieldwork. Teams apply protocols for image/scan capture, materials and condition notes, and clean data management; work is presented in a closing review.
Participants (Eligibility)
• Post-graduate students and young professionals (0–7 years) in architecture, conservation, archaeology, heritage management, urban planning, materials science, geomatics, or digital heritage (photogrammetry, TLS/LiDAR, HBIM).
• Ability to work in field conditions and deliver time-bound outputs.
• Working English required; Arabic/French an asset.
• Availability for full duration and mandatory briefings.
Fees, Travel & Logistics
• No tuition fee.
• Participants cover round-trip international airfare (and any visa/insurance).
• Organizers arrange in-country accommodation, local transport, permits/site access, field materials/equipment, and most meals.
Expected Outputs (credit-bearing)
• Site documentation pack (photos/3D/360°, survey sheets).
• Condition/diagnostic notes and materials profile.
• Standardized fiches (EN; template provided).
• Clean, reproducible data folders with metadata and file-naming.
Application Requirements (single PDF, ≤10 MB)
• CV (max 2 pages).
• Motivation statement (≤300 words): your contribution and delivery plan.
• Mini-portfolio (5–8 pages) of relevant work.
• One referee (name, title, email).
• Email: [address] | Subject: Application — Winter School 2026 — Your Name
Key Dates
• Application deadline: 12 November 2025, 23:59 TRT (UTC+3)
• Results notification: 22 November 2025
• On-site programme: 29 January–8 February 2026
Important
Selected participants must submit their passport details within 48 hours of notification to initiate mandatory permissions with Algerian ministries and local authorities. Delays in providing documents may affect participation and travel arrangements.
Working Language
English (with facilitation in Arabic/French as needed).
Certificate
Issued upon full participation and approved deliverables.
Send your application to following address gro.acicri@erutcetihcra
