As 2024 comes to an end, it’s time to reflect on a year filled with impactful research, academic achievements, and meaningful collaborations. Over the decades, IHS has evolved into a global centre of excellence and knowledge. This year, we continued building on these strong roots, dedicating ourselves to shaping sustainable urban futures. Let’s take a look at the key highlights of 2024.
Education & academic excellence
In 2024, IHS continued its mission to inspire and empower urban professionals and citizens to make cities work for all. During the spring, our Career Days united current students and alumni in the Netherlands, fostering connections and opening new opportunities. The summer also marked the graduation of 109 students from our MSc in Urban Management and Development (UMD), highlighting their hard work and dedication. The same programme welcomed 49 participants from 26 countries in September, creating a dynamic environment for learning and collaboration.
Furthermore, our involvement in collaborations like Redesigning the Post-Industrial City (RePic) and Master in Societal Transitions (MST) continued to grow, reflecting our expanding influence in urban research and education. The second cohort of the RePic programme, which started in September 2024, welcomed 45 students, and the MST engaged around 20 students this year.
The PhD programme in Urban Development & Governance achieved significant milestones, with nine researchers successfully completing their studies this year. IHS short courses on Urban Management Tools for Climate Change (UMTCC) and Sustainable Urban Development (SUD) offered participants the tools and expertise needed to address contemporary urban challenges.
Key research & publications
In 2024, IHS solidified its contribution to the urban development research field. Our faculty and researchers produced numerous impactful publications addressing critical topics such as social complexities, administrative degradation in middle-sized cities and AI battling climate change, among others. A total of 36 staff research papers and publications were published, contributing to urban development research.
Projects & partnerships
This year, IHS has made significant progress by establishing strategic new partnerships and securing impactful projects that align with our mission. By collaborating with international organisations, local communities, governments, industry leaders, and the research community, the institute continues to build bridges that drive urban change and sustainable growth.
IHS has successfully acquired 20 new projects worldwide on various topics ranging from climate adaptation to strategic urban planning, affordable housing, digitalisation, and local governance. These projects reinforce our commitment to creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban development.
Additionally, IHS delivered multiple trainings designed to empower professionals and practitioners from various sectors. Hosted in Nigeria, South Africa, Colombia, Bangladesh and Suriname, these trainings reflect our capacity to tailor solutions that meet specific regional and national urban needs. By engaging local professionals and stakeholders, we continue to strengthen capacity, encourage knowledge exchange, and support the development of sustainable urban solutions on a global scale.
Events
IHS hosted dynamic sessions at the 12th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Cairo, contributed to expert-led panels, and collaborated with global stakeholders to address pressing urban challenges. WUF12 allowed us to exchange ideas with policymakers, practitioners, and academics, further strengthening our commitment to shaping sustainable urban futures.
During WUF12, IHS organised the IHS Alumni Impact Award, honouring the outstanding accomplishments of our alumni. The award celebrated alumni who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation in their respective fields, creating meaningful change in urban development across the globe. One such example is this year's winner, Zamikaya Mgwatyu, who presented the Contractor and Developer Academy. Zamikaya shared the significance of their work:
"Being here today isn't just about me; it’s about the micro-developers and contractors we’re working within South Africa. They’re addressing a critical social challenge in our country: affordable housing and creating employment opportunities."
Looking ahead to 2025
As we turn the page to 2025, IHS remains committed to advancing urban development. Reflecting on the past year, our director, David Dodman, remarked:
"The impact made by our graduates, the evidence provided by our research, and the guidance given through our advisory activities have demonstrably shaped urban development around the world in many positive ways. As we look to the future, we aim to be even more insightful, inclusive, and ambitious in achieving a positive social impact."
IHS will start 2025 with a new organisational strategy, guiding the organisation's direction for the coming years. We invite you to join us in our mission, whether by attending our events, enrolling in our programmes, or collaborating on impactful projects. With ambitious goals, new projects on the horizon, and a community of passionate professionals, we aspire to make a difference.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to our achievements this year. Together, we continue to shape a brighter urban future. Thank you for being part of the IHS journey in 2024. Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and innovation!
