𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐔𝐑𝐏 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐏 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐔𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐮𝐦 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔

Oct 18, 2026

The Department of Urban and Regional Planning (URP) acted as one of the major partners of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and organized the National Urban Forum 2026, held on 6 –7 September 2026 at Pan Pacific Sonargaon, Dhaka. The two-day Forum brought together policymakers, urban professionals, development partners, academics, and other stakeholders to share knowledge on critical issues in urban development across four thematic sessions. The Forum also provided an important platform for discussing the priorities of the National Urban Policy 2025 and emphasizing the need to translate policy commitments into effective actions. Dr. Asif-uz-Zaman Khan, Professor of the Department of URP, delivered the keynote address for the thematic session on “Effective Urban Services.” His address provided valuable perspectives on the challenges and strategic approaches to ensuring the delivery of accessible, affordable, inclusive, and sustainable urban services in rapidly urbanizing contexts. Dr. Neelopal Adri, Associate Professor, moderated the thematic session on “Climate Resilience & Environmental Sustainability.” The students of the Department served as rapporteurs for the Forum, documenting key discussions, insights, and recommendations from the thematic sessions. Besides, many other students gained valuable experience and exposure through their participation in the event.