From Brain to Building: Towards an Integrated, Humane, and Resilient African Prison Reform (PID082)

2.15pm – 3pm WEST, 22 April 2026 ‐ 45 mins

Parallel Workshops

The "From Brain to Building" project introduces the first African framework for prison innovation based on Design Thinking , structured according to the Double Diamond model . It relies on a cross-cutting, two-phase approach:
 
Phase 1 – Finding the right problem
A thorough exploration based on three diagnostic pillars:
1.    Behavioral neuroscience – to understand stress, communication, conflict triggers, and the emotional climate within institutions.
2.    Operational governance – to analyze workflows, policy-practice gaps, security vulnerabilities and structural constraints.
3.    Architectural design – to rethink prison space as a tool for rehabilitation, in relation to the environment, climate standards and human needs.
 
Phase 2 – Finding the right solution
A collaborative ideation process produces integrated interventions : low-cost prototypes, environmental simulations, PRISM-inspired communication routines, modular spatial solutions and an Integrated Correctional Master Plan (ICM).