Talkshow “From classroom to city: Preparing future designers for smart and sustainable practice”

Bridging academic learning and professional practice in architecture and smart urban design

To strengthen the connection between University – Industry – Students, while supporting students in preparing for their future careers in the context of rapid transformations driven by technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainable urban development, the Institute of Smart City & Management (ISCM) organized the talkshow “From Classroom to City: Preparing Future Designers for Smart and Sustainable Practice” for students of the Bachelor of Architecture and Urban Design (BAUD) program on May 9, 2026, at UEH Campus V, 232/6 Võ Thị Sáu.

The program welcomed professionals and industry representatives working in architecture, design, and urban development, including:

• Mr. Soh Wee Keong – General Director of CPG Vietnam

• Architect Đặng Thục Trang – Director of Scene Plus

• Architect Steven Petit – Creative Director of OMGEVING

• Architect Nguyễn Thị Thái Hằng – Co-founder of LAITA Design

Through a series of professional sharing sessions and discussions, the talkshow explored emerging industry demands, the transformation of professional design practice, and the essential competencies required for future architecture and urban design students.

Representatives from CPG Vietnam shared insights into the differences between academic environments and professional practice, particularly the transition from individual studio-based thinking to collaborative work within multidisciplinary design teams. Beyond technical expertise, the speakers emphasized the importance of curiosity, continuous learning, and the ability to proactively build a personal career development pathway in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

From the perspective of professional practice, Architect Đặng Thục Trang (Scene Plus) highlighted the importance of understanding a company’s core values and organizational culture when entering a professional working environment. She also emphasized the need for students to develop a structured working mindset, adaptability under pressure, and persistence in continuously improving their personal capabilities.

In his presentation, Architect Steven Petit (OMGEVING) focused on the role of the “initial idea” throughout the design development process. According to him, although projects may evolve under technical, social, and technological influences, the original concept remains the “guiding thread” that shapes the overall creative direction. He also addressed the growing impact of AI and technology on the design industry, emphasizing that technological applications must go hand in hand with academic responsibility and human verification. In this context, critical thinking, communication, storytelling through design, interdisciplinary collaboration, and an understanding of urban systems are becoming increasingly important competencies for future designers.

From the perspective of design rooted in everyday life and social observation, Architect Nguyễn Thị Thái Hằng (LAITA Design) shared that observing daily life and paying attention to small details within living environments are important sources of inspiration and data for design thinking. According to her, the ability to observe and empathize with real-life contexts helps designers maintain sensitivity toward people and place - an essential quality in creating sustainable and human-centered design solutions.

Beyond professional sharing, the talkshow also created an open discussion space where students and industry representatives exchanged perspectives on labor market expectations, essential skills for fresh graduates, and the future role of technology and AI within the design industry.

Through this talkshow, ISCM continues to affirm its educational orientation toward practice-based learning, strengthening industry connections, and promoting interdisciplinary learning environments to support students in developing professional competencies, systems thinking, and adaptability within rapidly changing urban and technological contexts.

Highlighted Photos from talkshow:

Photos and news: Institute of Smart City & Management (ISCM)