An online master class titled “Transformative Planning: Rethinking Mobility, Land Use and Urbanization in Times of Global Shocks” was held at Mingachevir State University (MSU).

The master class was delivered by K.M. Nahiduzzaman, representing Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (Morocco) and The University of British Columbia Okanagan (Canada). A group of MSU staff members, students, and master’s degree students participated in the training in a hybrid format.

During the session, it was emphasized that modern cities are increasingly shaped by overlapping global shocks. It was noted that factors such as climate change, pandemics, and economic instability significantly influence urbanization processes, mobility patterns, housing choices, and spatial planning.

The presentation provided a comprehensive analysis of how contemporary shocks—including the COVID-19 pandemic, climate-induced emergencies, and rising living costs driven by global inflation—are reshaping urban and territorial systems. Based on Canadian experience and global trends, discussions highlighted the impact of extreme climate events, digital transformation, the expansion of remote work models, and the rapid growth of e-commerce on land use, daily mobility, and residential preferences.

It was underlined that traditional planning approaches are no longer sufficient to address current challenges. In this regard, the importance of adopting adaptive and integrated planning models—taking into account changing migration flows, hybrid work environments, and the transformation of urban–rural relations—was emphasized. Analytical insights were also presented on impacts related to real estate markets, urban mobility, and infrastructure planning.

At the end of the master class, the significance of system thinking and transformative planning strategies—integrating sustainability, adaptive building design, and stronger interregional connections—was highlighted, and participants’ questions were answered.

It should be noted that Mingachevir State University regularly organizes trainings, seminars, and master classes with the participation of international experts to promote sustainable development, urban planning, innovative approaches, and responses to global challenges.