Urban and Regional Planning Unit
Given the prevailing circumstances, ongoing institutional development, and the rapid urbanization observed in the Palestinian territories, An-Najah National University recognized the need to actively contribute to the local community's advancement and participate in the nation-building process. In pursuit of these objectives and aligned with the university's mission, the Urban and Regional Planning Department was established at the onset of the 1998/1999 academic year. This pioneering department stands out as a distinguished unit, potentially marking the first of its kind in Palestine and the surrounding region.
Vision
To become a globally recognized and respected unit, equipped with both administrative and technical expertise, capable of making significant contributions to the advancement of practical urban planning and the realization of sustainable urban development in Palestine.
Mission
Our mission is to deliver top-tier services and expert technical consultations, while striving for excellence in the fields of planning and urban development. We aim to achieve this by employing highly skilled and efficient professionals and harnessing the power of modern technologies.
In line with its vision and mission, the Urban and Regional Planning Unit at An-Najah National University is committed to achieving the following objectives:
- Foster the re-planning and organization of Palestinian cities and villages by conducting comprehensive studies, providing strategic guidance, and addressing pertinent issues related to urban planning at the local, regional, and national levels in Palestine.
- Offer guidance and technical assistance in the field of urban planning to ministries, institutions, local authorities, and relevant stakeholders, empowering them with the necessary tools and knowledge for effective urban development.
- Enhance and strengthen the practice of urban planning in Palestine, promoting best practices, innovative approaches, and continuous professional development among planners and urban practitioners.
- Contribute to the localization and advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 11, and actively implement the principles outlined in the New Urban Agenda (NUA).
- Play an active role in establishing the foundational frameworks and regulations for environmental management, climate change adaptation, and sustainable urban development within Palestinian cities and population centers.
- Organize and institutionalize the urban planning process in Palestine, establishing clear procedures, standards, and protocols to streamline planning activities and ensure efficient decision-making.
- Collaborate with relevant authorities to develop national regulations and standards for urban planning and organization, facilitating consistent and cohesive urban development across Palestine.
- Establish academic and training partnerships and cooperation programs with international universities and specialized research centers in the field of urban and regional planning, fostering knowledge exchange, capacity building, and the adoption of global best practices.
The unit's scope of work encompasses a wide range of activities related to urban planning at the local, regional, and national levels. Some of the key areas of focus include:
- Development of comprehensive plans, including regional, structural, detailed, land settlement, and zoning plans, tailored to meet specific urban needs.
- Formulation of strategic development plans for regions and population centers, encompassing long-term visions and goals to guide sustainable urban growth.
- Conducting in-depth studies, surveys, and specialized research to gather data, analyze trends, and generate valuable insights for evidence-based decision-making in urban planning.
- Preparation of development projects in collaboration with ministries, local authorities, and relevant institutions, ensuring the translation of planning concepts into tangible initiatives that contribute to urban progress.
- Organization of specialized training courses designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of professionals working in the public and private sectors, equipping them with the latest advancements in urban planning practices.
The unit prioritizes establishing and nurturing strong connections with the local community, recognizing the crucial role they play in the urban planning process. Through active engagement, the unit aims to provide valuable guidance and technical assistance to ministries, institutions, local authorities, and concerned stakeholders. Moreover, the unit strives to enhance the training and qualification of professionals, foster awareness, and encourage institutional and community participation in the realm of planning and urban development. The unit's commitment to community engagement is demonstrated through the following approaches:
- Organizing and actively participating in diverse activities such as conferences, seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns.
- Engaging in membership with specialized committees across various relevant institutions.
The unit actively cultivates cooperative relationships and partnerships with the industry and business sectors, aiming to enhance and strengthen the practical application of urban planning in Palestine. These collaborations are instrumental in establishing the necessary foundations and regulations for effective management and control of environmental and climate change factors. Moreover, the unit endeavors to contribute to the development of national regulations and standards for urban planning and organization, while playing a pivotal role in organizing and institutionalizing the urban planning process in Palestine.