Al-Mustaqbal University, represented by the College of Engineering Technologies / Department of Building and Construction Engineering Technologies, organized the Fifth Sustainable Cities Forum under the theme “Urban Renewal: Adequate Housing for All” on 4 November 2026. The forum was held under the patronage of the University President, Professor Dr. Hassan Shaker Magdy, in cooperation with the Iraqi Academics Syndicate – Babylon Branch, reaffirming the University's commitment to supporting sustainable development and strengthening partnerships with community institutions.
During the forum, Professor Dr. Muzaffar Sadiq Al-Zuhairi, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision and representative of the University Presidency, emphasized the importance of transforming academic expertise into practical solutions to urban challenges, with particular focus on achieving sustainability in the housing and energy sectors, thereby contributing to the development of urban environments and improving quality of life.
The forum witnessed distinguished participation from local government authorities and executive departments in Babylon Governorate, including Mr. Alaa Al-Araji, First Deputy Governor of Babylon, the Director of Urban Planning, and several officials and representatives of local departments. Their participation highlighted the importance of integration between academic institutions and government authorities in achieving sustainable urban development.
The forum also featured an interactive workshop entitled “From Power Outages to Sustainability: A Residential Neighborhood Experience with Renewable Energy in Iraq.” The workshop explored hybrid energy systems, solar mini-grids, and green investment, with the participation of distinguished academics and experts, including Dr. Ahmed Turki Jiyad, Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of Electricity; Dr. Hilal Abdul Hussein Al-Hilali from the College of Engineering at the University of Babylon; Dr. Haider Abdul Hussein Al-Jubouri, consultant and expert in industrial project management; Dr. Silwan Obaid, Director of the Energy Research Center; and Consulting Engineer Zaman Ali Musa, Head of the Iraqi Engineers Syndicate.
The forum concluded with a series of recommendations focusing on strengthening cooperation between academic and governmental institutions, developing practical solutions to enhance energy security, supporting sustainable urban development, and improving the quality of life in Babylon Governorate and throughout Iraq.
This forum aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals, supporting efforts to build sustainable cities and provide adequate housing for all.
Al-Mustaqbal University, ranked first among private universities in Iraq, continues its commitment to supporting scientific and community initiatives and strengthening its academic role in developing sustainable solutions to the challenges facing society.