The recently concluded 58th ITEC Training Programme on ‘Leveraging Resilience for Future Proofing our Cities’ has marked another milestone in the global initiative towards sustainable urban development. Organized by the Human Settlement Management Institute (HSMI) of HUDCO and sponsored by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, the programme aimed at equipping international urban sector professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance the resilience of cities against the backdrop of increasing environmental challenges.
Over the course of two weeks, the programme saw the participation of 22 delegates from 13 different countries, including nations such as Ghana, Indonesia, Iraq, Tunisia, Zimbabwe, and Sri Lanka. These participants, who hold key positions as architects, planners, engineers, and development experts in their respective countries, were selected to partake in a series of intensive sessions. The curriculum was carefully designed to cover a broad spectrum of topics crucial for modern urban resilience including resilient urban planning, climate change adaptation, disaster preparedness, and socio-economic resilience strategies.
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The training was not only theoretical but also highly interactive. Participants engaged in various hands-on activities such as country-specific presentations, action planning exercises, and quizzes. These activities were complemented by exposure visits to significant historical and cultural sites within India, offering practical insights and a broader perspective on how resilience and cultural heritage can be interwoven in urban planning.
A key highlight of the programme was the emphasis on innovative financing models and disaster-resilient technologies, which are essential for implementing sustainable urban development projects. Discussions and workshops led by experts in these fields provided participants with a deeper understanding of how to mobilize resources and integrate advanced technologies into their planning processes.
The closing ceremony of the training programme featured a comprehensive review of the action plans developed by the participants, showcasing their application of the knowledge and skills acquired during their stay. The valedictory address by Shri Sanjay Kumar, CMD of HUDCO, not only applauded the achievements of the participants but also encouraged them to apply the insights gained to real-world scenarios in their home countries.
This training programme is part of India’s broader commitment to fostering international collaboration through capacity building in critical areas like urban resilience. By sharing its expertise and resources, India continues to strengthen ties with other nations, promoting a collective approach to sustainable development and resilience in the face of global challenges.
As cities around the world continue to grow and face multifaceted challenges, initiatives like the ITEC Training Programme play a crucial role in preparing urban leaders to think globally and act locally, ensuring that urban environments are not only sustainable but also robust enough to withstand future challenges.
