Conclusions

Abstract

This concluding chapter summarizes insights from the selected national and regional case studies on the development and change of planning education. Establishing education programs, which are independently recognized, has been a slow process which is ongoing. In parallel, the threat of program closures remains despite the widespread recognition by international bodies such as UN-Habitat of the field’s contributions to making cities sustainable and liveable. The review also revealed that despite nation-specific professional requirements, common pedagogies and distinctive profiles of education programs are emerging. In order to progress and secure the future of planning education programs, we recommend that academics and planners (a) re-engage in espousing the value of planning to the general public, (b) further develop interdisciplinary competencies—a major strength of the field, and (c) remain adaptive.