Sumgayit Welcomes WUF13 Festival Information Session

On 12 May, Sumgayit State University hosted an information session dedicated to the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), bringing together academic staff and students as part of wider efforts to raise public awareness of the Event across the country.

Speaking at the event, Farman Kazimov, Head of the Socio-Political and Humanitarian Affairs Sector at the Sumgayit City Executive Authority, reflected on Sumgayit’s origins and the city’s development over the past 77 years. Participants were also briefed on major urban development initiatives delivered across Sumgayit over the last decade, with particular emphasis placed on the significance of WUF13.

Ramiz Idrisoghlu, a representative of the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, spoke about the country’s achievements in urban development, placing particular emphasis on the large-scale reconstruction and development works under way in the liberated territories. He noted that the Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions are witnessing not only restoration efforts, but also the creation of entirely new residential environments built to modern standards. It was further highlighted that master plans for eight cities, alongside urban planning frameworks for 101 villages and settlements, have already been approved.

Emin Huseynzade, Communications Manager at the WUF13 Azerbaijan Operations Company, delivered a detailed presentation on WUF13 and invited the university’s academic staff and students to take part in the event, noting that the programme has now been officially unveiled. He added that participants will be able to join both in person and online, while further details on the programme and related events are available via www.wuf13.az

The WUF13 Festival continued at 18:00 with an evening public programme at Park Goyarchin. 

Through a series of interactive activities, educational games, presentations and public discussions, the programme will engage a broad audience with themes including sustainable urban development, inclusive urban environments, innovative urban solutions and the cities of the future. It will also provide deeper insight into the central themes and core ideas shaping WUF13.