Abstract
Purpose: As cities in the developing countries are expanding at an alarming rate with resulting increase in demand for shelter, energy and means of livelihood, smart growth planning approach provides a means of making the cities more sustainable. And for the cities to grow smartly there is the need to train urban planners to think and act on how to help create and maintain cleaner, healthier and more sustainable communities. Using University of Dammam in Saudi Arabia as a case study, this study evaluates the efforts of higher institutions of learning in promoting smart growth in a country that is experiencing high population growth and its cities are rapidly expanding due to oil boom. The paper then highlights the critical role universities could play in promoting smart growth in planning and managing the rapidly growing cities of developing countries.
Design / Methodology / Approach: In order to determine the extent to which the University promotes the principles of smart growth in its Bachelor of Urban and Regional planning program, data was collected through a review of bachelor of urban and regional planning curriculum and syllabi and final year projects and other relevant secondary literature. Descriptive statistics and contents analyses were used for data analyses.
Originality / Value: The role of higher institutions in promoting smart growth principles in planning cities has been under utilized in the developing countries. This study highlights the critical role of universities in promoting smart growth principles in planning and managing cities in developing countries.
Practical Application: This paper draws the attention of higher institutions of learning on the ways they can contribute in making our cities grow smarter. Colleges and universities can inculcate smart growth planning strategies in training urban planners and future decision makers and help local governments with technical ability, and intellectual and institutional resources to ensure that growth and development protects and enhances the natural environment, promotes economic prosperity, and enhances quality of life for all citizens.