The 2018 reform of the National Superior Schools of Architecture (ENSA)

Progress report

The 2018 reform of the National Superior Schools of Architecture (ENSA)

Report prepared by François Hurard and Benoit Paumier, Inspectors General of Cultural Affairs.

IGAC Report No. 2020 - 18

This report, devoted to an initial assessment of the implementation of the February 2018 decrees reforming the 20 national higher schools of architecture, notes that the reform is the subject of a confirmed consensus on its two main components: the introduction of a more participatory governance of the schools, and the establishment of a status for teacher-researchers closer to the university model.

On the other hand, its implementation has encountered real difficulties in application, linked to the ambiguity of the texts on governance and the variety of situations in each school, which have been added to an already tense budgetary situation. These difficulties resulted in strong pressure on the actors most directly involved: managements, new governance bodies, and administrative staff.

The rapporteurs therefore make five series of recommendations which propose to clarify, specify and complete the implementation of the reform, and to draw the consequences both in the operation of the supervision exercised by the Ministry of Culture, and in the budgetary support of the schools.

Posted: 07/12/2021