Dept of Civil Engineering begins Faculty Development Programme on Smart Cities

Source:
 https://indiaeducationdiary.in/dept-of-civil-engineering-begins-faculty-development-programme-on-smart-cities/

Aligarh: Broad array of theoretical and empirical issues related to how technology can trigger transformation towards smarter systems of cities, capable of improving well-being of citizens and enhancing quality of life were discussed at the inaugural function of the two-weeks, Faculty Development Programme on ‘Smart Cities-Challenges and Opportunities’ which began on Monday at the Department of Civil Engineering, Z H College of Engineering and Technology (ZHCET), Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).

The programme is organised under the Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme (TEQIP), a Government of India (GoI) assisted project.

Attending the inaugural function as the Chief Guest, Prof B H Khan, Dean, Faculty of Engineering and Technology discussed how GoI initiative of Smart Cities Mission will drive economic growth and improve the quality of life of people by enabling local development and harnessing technology as a means to create smart outcomes for citizens.

Discussing how developed countries such as United States of America transformed their cities into smart cities; Prof M M Sufyan Beg, Principal, ZHCET emphasised that smart cities bring together people, processes, and technology to enable a holistic approach that accounts for their city culture, long-term planning, and citizen needs.

Prof I H Farooqui, Officiating Chairman, Department of Civil Engineering spoke on the major research projects of the Department including European Union (EU) supported projects led by Prof Nadeem Khalil, who is also the convener of the programme.

Prof Khalil discussed case studies of smart city projects and the challenges involved. He pointed out to the necessity of creating policies and objectives that truly meet identified needs of people living in cities where smart city projects are to be implemented.

Prof Khalil also spoke on the importance of civic sense and discipline in cities.

Mr Kulbhushan Varshney, Chief Engineer, Aligarh Nagar Nigam threw light on how to overcome difficulties in smart city projects.