On the fifth day of the 3rd International Future Week for Sustainability 2025, Al-Mustaqbal University hosted a distinguished panel discussion titled: "Cities Between People and Identity – Towards Sustainable Urban Planning", gathering a select group of academics and experts in architecture and urban planning.
The session, moderated by Umayma Kazem Al-Tai, an expert in sustainable urban design, focused on the concept of "Humanizing Cities", which connects urban spaces to human dignity and emphasizes the importance of urban planning based on human needs and cultural identity.
The session was opened with an insightful presentation by Prof. Dr. Ahmed Abdel Ali Rashid, an expert in sustainable architecture and Iraq’s representative at Green Metrics, who advocated for linking urban design with daily life details. He stressed that "cities should be built for people, not at their expense," emphasizing the need for balanced urban planning that respects both human dignity and the environment.
Meanwhile, Dr. Venus Suleiman Akef, an architect and recipient of the Tamayouz Excellence Award, discussed how to transform cultural identity and architectural heritage into foundations for future cities. She shared her international experiences, particularly her participation in global forums like the UN General Assembly, where she advocated for enhancing the interaction between society and urban spaces.
Dr. Samaan Majid B. Yass, Head of the Department of Architecture at University of Diyala, presented a comprehensive view on the role of sustainable tourism in reviving historic centers, describing it as an effective tool for connecting people to the memory of place through sensory experiences and direct engagement with the architectural environment.
The session was marked by diverse perspectives and deep discussions, providing a platform for rethinking the relationship between people and their cities, ensuring a balance between urban development and the preservation of cultural and environmental identity.
The session was attended by the Director and team of the Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University, highlighting the intersection of artificial intelligence and urban planning, and the growing role of smart technologies in supporting sustainable cities and enhancing quality of life.
This session is part of the Future Week for Sustainability festival organized by Al-Mustaqbal University, which sheds light on critical issues in urban sustainability, education, energy, climate action, and institutional partnerships, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Al-Mustaqbal University is the leading private university in Iraq.