Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/villes-africaines-1
Coursera continues to be a treasure trove for specialized knowledge, and their course ‘Villes africaines I: Introduction à la planification urbaine’ (African Cities I: Introduction to Urban Planning) is a prime example. This course offers a unique and much-needed perspective on urban development, focusing exclusively on the complexities and nuances of African cities.
From the outset, the course establishes its distinctiveness by emphasizing that while African cities offer valuable lessons for cities in the Global South and beyond, the specific context of Africa is paramount. This approach is crucial for understanding the continent’s rapid urbanization and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents.
The syllabus is comprehensive, guiding learners through the multifaceted dimensions of urban planning. It begins with a broad overview of urbanization in Africa and globally, setting the stage for understanding the key challenges and issues. Subsequent modules delve into the specificities of African cities, exploring their developmental models and the intricate issues they face.
The course doesn’t shy away from the technical aspects, covering urban development tools for managing transportation, infrastructure, public spaces, and housing, and how these shape urban forms. A particularly insightful section focuses on the practicalities of urban functioning, including step-by-step guidance on creating housing developments (lotissements), which are a significant feature of many African cities.
Financial aspects are also thoroughly addressed, highlighting how cities are funded and the diverse resources required. The course also tackles the critical issue of climate change and its impact on urban planning, offering strategies for adapting to this global challenge.
Furthermore, ‘Villes africaines I’ explores the operational aspects of urbanism, dedicating time to understanding informal settlements (lotissements) and the restructuring of precarious neighborhoods, recognizing their vital role within the urban fabric. The course also touches upon essential administrative tools like addressing and cadastral systems.
Finally, the course concludes with a look at governance, partnerships, and methods for measuring the real impact of planning initiatives. It provides a synthesized overview and reinforces key takeaways, leaving learners with a robust understanding of how to govern contemporary African cities.
**Recommendation:**
For anyone interested in urban planning, development studies, or simply gaining a deeper understanding of the contemporary African landscape, ‘Villes africaines I: Introduction à la planification urbaine’ is highly recommended. It provides a well-structured, context-specific, and insightful introduction to a critical field. The course is accessible, informative, and offers a valuable perspective that is often overlooked in mainstream urban planning discourse. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or an engaged citizen, this course will undoubtedly enrich your knowledge.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/villes-africaines-1