On April 7, 2025 the students of the Community Development specialization at the North-East Institute of Social Science and Research (NEISSR) held a dynamic model presentation event today, focused on the theme “Sustainable Cities and Communities”, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11. The event, under the expert guidance of Dr. Toli H. Kiba, (Asst. Prof. NEISSR) highlighted the creative and forward-thinking approaches of four student groups in conceptualizing sustainable urban models. The event was attended by faculty members, Peace Channel staff, and students from across different departments, who actively engaged with the presentations, asking insightful questions and offering constructive feedback that enriched the overall experience.
Group 1 introduced Suryanagar, a compact yet smart city spanning 10 square kilometres, designed to accommodate a population of around 15,000. The model featured solar-powered street lights, wind turbines, and eco-friendly public buildings. The city also incorporated a dual water supply system combining rainwater harvesting and river-linked resources. Additional highlights included green parks, waste segregation zones, and solar-powered factories, demonstrating how even small communities can adopt smart, sustainable practices. Group 2 focused on modernizing urban infrastructure while keeping sustainability at its core. Their Eco-City model included eco-conscious designs for malls, offices, schools, and homes, complemented by green spaces and renewable energy sources like windmills and solar panels. A waste management system was also integrated, promoting the “reuse, reduce, recycle” principle with clearly labelled dustbins. Their design presented a balanced, smart, and environmentally friendly urban area.
Group 3 emphasized the importance of long-term sustainability with a design that incorporated renewable energy sources, a dual water supply system, and efficient waste management solutions such as recycling units and incinerators. The city also featured key facilities such as hospitals, schools, and signal-free metro lines for efficient transportation. Their model emphasized planning cities that meet the needs of both current and future generations. The final group explored urban development through the lens of the Multiple Centres Theory. Their model spread essential facilities, such as residential zones, marketplaces, and industrial areas, across several urban nuclei rather than concentrating them in a single central business district. The model incorporated decentralized planning, waste segregation units, and water storage systems to create a functional and resilient city that promotes sustainable growth and enhanced quality of life.
The model presentation event organized by the students of NEISSR’s Community Development specialization successfully showcased the innovative ideas and collaborative efforts of the next generation of urban planners. By aligning their projects with Sustainable Development Goal 11, each group demonstrated the potential for sustainable urban development through creativity, technology, and strategic planning. The presentations not only provided valuable insights into building environmentally responsible and inclusive communities but also sparked meaningful discussions on the future of sustainable cities. NEISSR continues to empower students to think critically and act proactively in addressing global challenges, preparing them to contribute effectively to the advancement of sustainable urban solutions.