Workshop on Inclusive Campus Design Held at BEU within the Framework of WUF13

A workshop was organized with the participation of professional specialists at the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning within the Faculty of Architecture and Construction at Baku Engineering University (BEU), as part of the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) to be held in Azerbaijan.

The event, dedicated to the topic "Inclusive Campus Design: Mobility, Accessibility and Human-Centred Public Spaces," was attended by the university's teaching staff and students, as well as field experts.

The event was moderated by Ardit Elezi, architect, urban planning specialist, and BEU lecturer. Delivering the opening address, Anna Soave, Country Programme Manager for Azerbaijan at the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), and Maleyka Taghizade, the organization's Advocacy and Campaigns Officer, shared their views on the formation of inclusive environments, sustainable urban development, and international experience.

Subsequently, papers were presented by Anar Valiyev, Associate Professor at ADA University; Nani Zhgenti, architect and urbanist, chief architect of the "Nani Zhgenti" project and Chair of the Creative Commission of the Union of Architects of Azerbaijan; Aysel Karimli, Head of the Architecture Sector at the Baku City Architecture and Urban Planning Main Department; Fidan Namazova, researcher in state policy and urbanization; and Sabir Orujov, Head of the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning at BEU. The presentations highlighted the creation of inclusive urban environments, principles of accessibility, and contemporary urbanization approaches.

During the practical segment of the workshop, students conducted campus observation and mapping exercises. They surveyed and documented pedestrian pathways, accessibility barriers, ramps and staircases, shaded areas, seating facilities, and inter-building connectivity across the designated area.

As part of the group work, students developed proposals for the redesign of pedestrian pathways, improving accessibility through ramps, organizing inclusive public spaces, and enhancing circulation between buildings.

In conclusion of the event, held in accordance with Goal 11 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (Sustainable Cities and Communities), student presentations were heard, discussions were conducted, and certificates were presented to participants.