The Smartcity+exhibition held on December 17 at the UEH campus showcased ideas and projects received by the 2nd International Design Competition. Photo courtesy of the University of Economics HCM City

HCM CITY — Training, workshops and seminars, research, projects, exhibitions, studios, and community initiatives were organised throughout this year as part of the SMARTCITY+ programme organised by the University of Economics HCM City that wrapped up on Friday (December 17).

It attracted more than 30 local and foreign universities, businesses, organisations, and NGOs, who joined both online and in-person, to discuss development of smart cities based on cultural values, technology and efficient urban problem-solving using available resources.

Speaking at the closing ceremony on Friday (December 17), Prof Sử Đình Thành, rector of the University of Economics HCM City, said despite being severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing, the programme successfully organised a number of activities and had a broad effect on the community.

“With the co-operation and support of universities, research institutes, governments, domestic and international businesses, and communities, I believe that we can continue to promote the spirit of dynamism and creativity with many more events in the future, connecting the community and spreading knowledge for cities’ sustainable development.”

As part of the programme, the Smartcity+ exhibition was held on December 17 at the university to showcase ideas and projects from the 2nd International Design Competition organised by the Institute of Smart City and Management.

The annual contest seeks to help make smart cities liveable and achieve a sustainable future.

This year’s contest called for ideas to enhance urban identity towards smart cities.

The entries were hailed by the jury for their practicality and addressing the problems society is likely to face.

More than 60 entries were received from numerous countries and judges from 13 universities and 14 businesses at home and abroad chose the top five over three rounds of competition and evaluation. — VNS