Aiming to influence urban policy change in Africa through study
Edwin Wabomba, graduate of MSc City Planning & Real Estate Development
My name is Edwin Wabomba; I recently graduated from the University of Glasgow with a Master’s of Science in City Planning and Real Estate Development courtesy of the prestigious Chevening scholarship, in partnership with the University of Glasgow.
Prior to joining UofG, I extensively researched on planning programmes in different universities across the UK. This was mainly driven by the desire to enrol into a master’s program that was diverse both in course content and teaching methods. I also wanted a university with an excellent academic and social reputation globally, supportive teaching staff, dependable facilities, and one that was safe for international students. The University of Glasgow presented to me what I was exactly looking for.
For instance, my master’s program had well-structured modules like “spatial planning strategies”, “Real estate markets”, ‘’designing places’’ and “urban studies research”, which extensively covered critical issues in housing and urban policy. The mode of delivery of the program which included, seminars, in-class discussions, lectures, practical site visits to housing projects, and visits by external experts was excellent. Using real projects during assessments to test our level of understanding and the applicability of concepts made the course even more practical and fun. A case in point was the use of M8 motorway in aiding the final assessment of spatial planning strategies module. This gave me a chance to experience first-hand, how urban policies and strategies are developed and implemented; how urban neighbourhoods are planned; and it highlighted for me the deep existing relationship between city planning and housing developments, and how this affects the built environment. This new knowledge resonates with my ambition of influencing urban policy change, in areas of urban conservation, neighbourhood planning, and urban waste management aimed at enhancing development of green, clean and organised cities in Africa. The opportunity to engage with my professors, classmates and external experts has also given a network of dependable professionals, which is vital in my career as an urban development practitioner.
Besides the excellent academic infrastructure like the well-equipped design studios, library, and spacious lecture rooms, the emotional and academic support I received from my tutors and the administrative team at the department made it possible for me to excel in my studies. It is because of some of such reasons that I plan on enrolling for a PhD in urban studies at UofG.
Currently, I work as the chief executive officer for Wakari Housing, a housing firm providing services of real estate sales, planning, development and management in Uganda; and the vice chairperson of Dream Achievers Housing Club, a club that is quickly increasing access to affordable and organised housing in Mbale city. I am also closely working with the team at Mbale City Council, one of Uganda’s regional cities, supporting them mainly with policy development and implementation.