Graduate Certificate in Gender and Urban Informality
Published on June 23, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to be talking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in urban planning and gender studies. She's here to discuss an exciting new course she's designed, the Graduate Certificate in Gender and Urban Informality. Welcome, Jane! GUEST: Thanks for having me! I'm excited to share more about this program. HOST: To start, could you tell us a bit about your personal experiences that led you to create this course? GUEST: Of course. As an urban planner, I've seen firsthand how gender inequalities play out in our cities. From housing insecurity to economic empowerment, I wanted to create a course that addresses these critical issues. HOST: That's fascinating. And who is this course designed for? What fields or professions would benefit from it? GUEST: It's designed for professionals in urban planning, social work, development, and related fields. Anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of gendered experiences within informal settlements and promote sustainable urban development would find this course valuable. HOST: Now, let's talk about current industry trends. How does this course tie into what's happening in the field right now? GUEST: There's growing recognition of the importance of intersectionality in urban planning. This course offers professionals the opportunity to explore these intersections and develop practical solutions for promoting gender equality in cities. HOST: That sounds incredibly relevant. Now, what challenges have you faced in teaching or learning this subject matter? GUEST: One of the biggest challenges is breaking down silos between different disciplines. We need to encourage collaboration and dialogue between urban planners, social workers, and policymakers to create more equitable cities. HOST: Absolutely. Lastly, what do you envision for the future of this area or industry? GUEST: I hope to see more emphasis on inclusive and equitable urban development. By prioritizing gender equality and empowering marginalized communities, we can build cities that work for everyone. HOST: Dr. Jane Smith, thank you so much for joining us today and sharing your insights on the Graduate Certificate in Gender and Urban Informality. It's been an enlightening conversation, and I'm sure our listeners have gained a lot from it. GUEST: Thank you for having me! It's been a pleasure.