At the 2024 Young Planners’ Week and Yearly General Meeting, town planners emphasized the urgent need for technological advancements in urban planning to effectively address the complex challenges facing cities.
Dr. Taofik Salau, Head of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Lagos, made this call during the event organized by the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners-Young Planners Forum (NITP-YPF) in Lagos.
Dr. Salau argued that integrating technology and data analytics into urban planning practices can revolutionize the field, equipping planners with essential tools to make informed decisions. He highlighted the potential of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), big data, and advanced data collection and visualization techniques in identifying emerging trends, optimizing resource allocation, and ultimately enhancing the quality of life for urban residents.
Salau pointed out that adaptive and responsive urban design is increasingly recognized as a vital strategy for creating resilient and sustainable cities. By developing urban environments capable of adapting to changing conditions, planners can mitigate the impacts of climate change, economic fluctuations, and social shifts that have become prevalent in urban areas. This approach involves incorporating flexibility, adaptability, and reversibility into urban development projects, as well as utilizing smart technologies such as sensors and data analytics to monitor urban performance and adjust strategies in real-time.
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He stressed that the integration of adaptive and responsive design principles is essential for creating resilient, sustainable, and equitable cities. However, he acknowledged that challenges such as infrastructure, safety, and equity must be addressed to ensure the successful implementation of these advanced technologies in urban transportation systems.
Dr. Salau also emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, businesses, and academic institutions. Through collaborative governance, urban planners can develop more inclusive, sustainable, and effective solutions, enabling rapid responses to infrastructure damage and reducing maintenance costs. This partnership approach can also help build trust, increase legitimacy, and ensure that planning decisions align with community needs and priorities.
Yusuf Adekoya, Coordinator of the NITP-YPF Lagos Chapter, noted the bright future for young planners and urged them to play a vital role in shaping their profession through concerted efforts, training, and collaborations. Adekoya highlighted the forum’s achievements, including urban design competitions, mentorship programs, and initiatives aimed at global recognition.
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Oluwafemi Popoola, Chairman of the 2024 YPF-AGM Planning Committee, expressed the association’s commitment to preparing young planners for the future by providing technical skills training in GIS, mapping, artificial intelligence, and drone technology. The association aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application in the field of urban planning.
As urban planners advocate for the adoption of technology, they remain focused on creating resilient, sustainable cities that can effectively navigate the challenges of the future.
