The Future of Education

Most city and urban centers around the globe have experienced tremendous spatial change over the last years as technological advancement has accelerated along with socio-economic and cultural globalization. African cities have grown in size and population, some dramatically so, especially in the sub-saharan Africa. Many cities and urban centers have changed in terms of their dominant economies, demographic compositions and in terms of urban form. The majority has experienced high degrees of fragmentation, social polarization and reduced public finance and poor infrastructure performance. It is now a well-established fact that educators, practioners and other stakeholders need to prepare for a future in Africa that is urbanising rapidly. Nevertheless, many planning schools have been slow to adjust to the new reality This paper therefore explores the future of urban design and city planning in Africa, by identifying and analysing key educational insights and practical strategies in advancing sustainable, inclusive and functional urban spaces in African cities. Having recognised the current rate of urbanisation, climate change and sustainable development challenges, the paper reflects and presents arguments that underscore the urgent need for reimagining urban planning educatiom in Africa. The aim is to propose reforms that would help to bridge the gap between theory and practice and produce more effective urban planners. This paper supports an edcational initiative that seeks to make planning education more responsive to the urban transformation in Africa.