Digital Urbanism: Challenges and Innovations

This lecture features Jérôme Chenal, an architect turned urban planner specializing in African cities, discussing the importance of understanding urban dynamics and the role of digital technologies in addressing various urban challenges. He highlights the Center of Excellence in Africa initiative, a collaborative effort between EPFL and the Polytechnic University of Morocco, aimed at research, promoting PhD programs, and enhancing digital education across the continent. Chenal emphasizes the need to leverage digital tools to tackle diverse urban issues, tailored to the specific needs of cities like Bamako, Abidjan, and Nairobi. The lecture also explores the process of identifying key research projects, fostering applied research, and supporting innovative transformations in urban environments.