The Aalto WiT Programme is an intensive, 3.5-month interdisciplinary post-master’s programme, developed in collaboration with our partner organisations and hosted by the World in Transition Research LAB (WiTLAB) at Aalto University.
The programme is aimed for professionals who aspire to make a meaningful impact in the field of humanitarian architecture and development. With a strong focus on enhancing the resilience of human settlements in low- and middle-income countries, this programme equips participants with the critical skills and insights needed to drive positive change.
By participating, you will gain a unique combination of academic knowledge and hands-on experience, preparing you to work within the humanitarian sector. The programme empowers you to identify and innovate sustainable strategies for vulnerable communities, collaborate with international organisations and NGOs, and contribute to global efforts in disaster response, post-conflict reconstruction, and sustainable development.
Bringing together the capacities of universities, humanitarian organisations, and committed professionals, the programme fosters action towards a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable world.
Are you ready to apply your expertise in architecture and development to the humanitarian field? Join the Aalto WiT Programme and be part of a global movement dedicated to building a better future for communities in need!
Case studies
Our partners provide real-life case studies for hands-on fieldwork in the Global South.
Aalto WiTLAB - World in Transition
The WiT Programme is organised by Aalto WiTLAB, a cross-school research and education unit at Aalto University.
Humanitarian architecture
Humanitarian architecture engages in design of human settlements in vulnerable conditions, ranging from short term emergency situations to long term poverty reduction.
Our Partners
Blog posts
Decolonising Sustainability: Reshaping Our Approach
Written by Anahita Rashidfarokhi, 10th of October 2023
Coaching for goal setting and time management in humanitarian architecture
Written by Katri-Liisa Pulkkinen, 26th of September 2023
Three ways systems thinking supports practicing of humanitarian architecture
Written by Katri-Liisa Pulkkinen, 9th of August 2023
Life coaching in humanitarian architecture training
Written by Katri-Liisa Pulkkinen, 9th of August 2023
WiT Programme - Bridging capacities to advance resilience of vulnerable communities
Written by Saija Hollmén, 9th of August 2023
Humanitarian architecture – what does it mean?
Written by Saija Hollmén, 8th of June 2023
News
WiT Talks - where theory meets practice, and dialogue meets impact
In a world where crises are becoming increasingly complex and interlinked, the need for transformative conversations and actionable solutions for global sustainability and resilience is paramount. In response to this pressing demand, WiT Talks emerges as a dynamic entity that transcends the boundaries of traditional discourse.WiT Talks is a WiTLAB-led initiative at Aalto University that stands at the forefront of a paradigm shift. We recognise the urgency of uniting passionate academics and researchers, forward-thinking practitioners, NGOs, community activists, and visionary policymakers in an environment where silos are dismantled and collaboration reigns supreme. The talks are designed to be the nexus where the realms of theory and practice converge, birthing novel insights and actionable strategies that have the power to reshape the future. These discussions are global, inclusive, and cross-cutting, fostering an innovative blend of perspectives. Through WiT Talks events and activities, we foster collaborations, enabling participants to translate discussions into tangible, real-world actions.
Welcome to a realm where conversations are catalysts for action, and every voice, every idea, and every contribution matters.
Panel discussion 'Humanitarian approach in the changing world' by Aalto WiT Programme, RLabs Tanzania and Finn Church Aid
Join us for an engaging panel discussion where we will explore the evolving landscape of humanitarian efforts with the challenges and opportunities it presents. Our panelists will address key questions shaping the future of the field in an insightful and thought-provoking discussion, offering a glimpse into the future of humanitarian work and the collaborative strategies necessary for positive change.
WiTLAB guesting on the Hopeful Globe Podcast
Aalto WiTLAB has guested on an episode of the Hopeful Globe Podcast by the University of Turku. The Hopeful Globe Podcast series is a collaboration between Institutes of Higher Education, sharing inspiring stories across the globe.
WiTLAB Side Event at UIA Copenhagen
Aalto WiT Programme launch and workshop - Side event at UIA Copenhagen 2023Events
WiTLAB alumni stories
Meet the professionals who have participated in WiTLAB's courses and collaborative projects through time! Here you find interviews where the alumni share their learning experiences and career journeys after graduating from Aalto University.
Niina Rinne - WiTLAB collaborator
Niina is an alumna of the Creative Sustainability programme, currently working at UN-Habitat in Nairobi as a Programme Management Officer
Milja Lindberg - WiTLAB research alumna
Milja is a Finnish-Canadian architect and independent researcher from the early years of WiTLAB’s research group
Maria Hedengren - Cities in Transition alumna
Maria is an architect currently working as a creative director, marketing strategist and planner