Tunis Workshop

About The Workshop

We are exploring the relationship between power dynamics among different stakeholders
within the urban governance systems
in various Arab countries and how this can enhance
the participation process in the formation of public spaces
(considered as the primary and simplest components of cities, which can be linked to localities).

OUTCOMES

Creating a network and fostering cooperation between TU Berlin and universities in partner countries, as well as local government authorities and civil society representatives in Tunisia, Lebanon, Sudan, Jordan, Iraq, and Egypt
Facilitating open channels of discussion and the exchange of experiences among higher education institutions, local government authorities, the private sector, and civil society stakeholders on topics related to local urban governance, participation, and urban space development.
out participation and managing cooperation and partnerships between the university and other non-academic actors in each of the partner countries.

OUTPUTS

Expanding contacts between TU Berlin and partner universities, local government, and civil society in Tunisia, Jordan, and Egypt, and establishing new connections with partner universities, local government, and civil society in Sudan, Lebanon, and Iraq.
Opening channels for discussion and knowledge exchange between partner institutions and civil society through contributions to workshops and symposia.
ting innovative and sustainable methods of communication, knowledge transfer, and experience exchange among the different partners.

Tunis Activities 2023

Day 1

On September 23, 2023, we kicked off the day with a visit to the enchanting Belvedere Park. We then embarked on a captivating walk through the historic colonial city. The adventure continued with a visit to downtown and the bustling Medina. Highlights included exploring the inclusive public spaces.

Day 2

On the second day, September 24, we met at ISTEUB to discuss the goals and organizational matters of the workshop. This was followed by a visit to our project site and another visit to a site managed by Espace Public Menzah VI.

Day 3

On the next day, September 25, the participants had a discussion with the municipality officials on the urban governance model in Tunis. This was followed by a community participation session with the beneficiaries, organized by the local school. The day ended with a working session at the local partner university.

Day 4

On September 26, physical, social and political/economic analysis were finalized and presented by the student groups. This was then developed further in a brainstorming session at the group level for design solutions.

Day 5

On September 27, we started with another design session in the hotel conference room to further develop the materiality, detail design and logistics of the interventions. In the evening, the participants attended a public open debate on participation, public spaces and local governance in Tunisia at Bibliothé, Lafayette.

Day 6 & 7

The last two days of the workshop witnessed the implementation of the design intervention with the participation of the local community. The last day ended with the opening ceremony that included a musical performance by the local artist with the attendance of a local community.