UBU 2025: HOUSING FUTURE – RETHINKING URBAN LIVABILITY

The first day of the Urban Beyond the Urban 2025 International Summer Camp began with a journey into the heart of the theme “Housing Future: Rethinking Urban Livability”, starting from places often overlooked: the area beneath the Văn Thánh metro line – where modern infrastructure meets the rhythms of everyday urban life.

Image: Group photo from the first day of the International Summer Camp Urban Beyond the Urban 2025

Here, students from ISCM – UEH and Handong University observed, listened, and raised important questions about how people live, adapt, and interact with one another in areas with limited infrastructure and housing access. The field trip offered a closer look at how transport infrastructure can shape the future of inclusive and livable cities.

Image: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Trịnh Tú Anh presenting the activities of UBU 2025

Image: M.A. Hoang Le Nam Hai presenting the activities of UBU 2025

The group also made a short stop at Masteri Thảo Điền – a representative of modern housing developments closely integrated with public transit. The stark contrast between high-rise, amenity-rich living spaces and the informal residential areas under the metro line sparked critical reflections: Can everyone truly “live well” in a fast-developing city like Ho Chi Minh City?

Image: Experiencing a tour of high-rise spaces and spontaneous residential areas

UBU is not about finding immediate answers, but about co-creating new perspectives and fresh ideas – envisioning a future where housing is not only about buildings, but about inclusive, sustainable, and human-centered living environments for all.

Image: Group photo of students participating in field activities at UBU 2025

The day closed with a light dinner, where students gathered to recharge, connect, and exchange stories – about culture, daily life, and how urban experiences differ across countries. A gentle yet inspiring start to a week-long journey of discovery with UBU 2025.

News, images: Smart Urban Institute and ISCM Communication Department