My house was build some 30 years ago by students who paid for their education. They added a new badge of construction workers every year (and the oldest badge got their diploma). I have no idea what happened with the concept. They are now back to [the usual] building things next to and inside the school then demolishing it.

I imagine the collective mind could greatly benefit if everyone had to spend a few (education focused) months in construction (and/or say farming etc) Its not boring if its just a short period. In construction you can learn the basics of a discipline (and make yourself useful) in just a few days.

But I agree it is the obstruction that prevents cheap housing. Its probably intentional (to some extend) simply to drive up prices.