Professor Nazrul Islam Urban Studio from department of Geography and Environ-ment at the University of Dhaka marked World Cities Day with "Future Cities 1.0" on October 31, an event designed to engage youths in envisioning sustainable urban futures. The event encouraged students to explore critical urban challenges and discuss solutions for building resilient, inclusive cities.
The event began with a tree-planting ceremony, where Dr M Shahidul Islam, chairman of the Department of Geography and Environment, University of Dhaka planted a sheuli sapling in the Qazi Motahar Hossain Bhaban premises. This act underscored commitment to sustainability and community driven environmental efforts. Following this, the chairman in his inaugural speech emphasised equipping the youth with the right knowledge and skill sets to drive sustainable urban transformations.
Future Cities 1.0 featured an urban quiz, a poster presentation competition, and a panel discussion with urban experts. Through these activities, participants gained fresh perspectives on urban sustainability and the multidimensional aspects of city development.
The Urban Quiz challenged students to demonstrate their understanding of urbanisation, urban planning and sustainability. The champion was MAG Ayon from University of Dhaka. First runners-up Mahabub Arefin and Nazia Sultana, and second runners-up Arafat Ibne Gias and Niyanta Roy all were also from University of Dhaka.
The Poster Presentation Competition highlighted student projects on urban challenges like waste management, climate action innovations, inclusive growth, transportation systems and disaster readiness. The teams presented practical and creative solutions, impressing judges and attendees alike.
The champion was Team Alu-Vorta from BUET. The first runner-up was Team Urbanclime Innovator and second runner-up was Team Aurora both from University of Dhaka.
Following both competitions, an insightful discussion among urban experts added valuable context on sustainable urban development and the role of youth in fostering it took place. Esteemed speakers, including Professor Emeritus Nazrul Islam, Professor Dr M Maksudur Rahman, AKM Rezaul Karim, president of Reza Kaiser Climate School and Bidhan Chandra Pal, founder and managing director of Probha Aurora, shared views on climate-conscious urban planning and inclusive growth. Topics ranged from the need for development in smaller regions to youth-driven, actionable research on urban resilience. Professor Dr M Maksudur Rahman moderated the entire session.
AKM Rezaul Karim emphasised the need to expand development initiatives beyond the capital, stating, "Development should reach the upazila levels; focusing solely on Dhaka will leave critical areas underdeveloped and vulnerable." He also addressed the threat posed by climate change, underscoring its pressing relevance for city planning and community resilience.
Adding to the discussion, Bidhan Chandra Pal addressed the potential of students and youths, urging them to focus on "implementation-based research," which could drive tangible improvements in urban management and climate action.
Professor Emeritus Nazrul Islam provided valuable insights. He said, "We need to reinforce the importance of climate-conscious urban planning for the soul of a city and implement inclusive development strategies."
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