Research News Last updated 03 October
A bold new international partnership is reimagining the cities of the future - making them smarter, more sustainable, and built for a greener tomorrow.
Birmingham City University (BCU), Lovely Professional University (LPU), the Munjal BCU Centre of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (MBCIE), and the Public Action Committee (PAC) have joined forces to drive innovation in sustainable urban development.
The SSG-Bridge project held its first international symposium earlier this month (17–19 September) in Punjab, India.
The event gathered leading researchers, policymakers, and community changemakers to tackle some of the world’s most pressing urban challenges - from slashing carbon emissions to boosting digital innovation and urban resilience.
“It was incredible to see UK and Indian researchers, policymakers and community leaders come together to share knowledge, create ideas and strengthen partnerships,” said Dr Vahid Javidroozi, Associate Professor in Smart City Systems at BCU and project lead.
“What stood out most was the energy and commitment from everyone involved. I’m confident this collaboration will continue to deliver real-world solutions with long-lasting impact.”
As the partnership progresses, it will launch feasibility studies, mentorship programmes, and collaborative research projects, ensuring solutions move beyond theory into real-world impact.
“This symposium has set a strong foundation for collaboration, innovation, and action,” said Dr Neeta Raj Sharma, Partner Project Leader (India), Senior Dean of the School of Bioengineering and Biosciences at LPU.
“We’re now building a framework for cross-country collaboration on smart, sustainable and green cities between Indian and the UK.
“We also created teams of early-career researchers to drive comparative studies, capacity building and roadmaps for urban growth who we hope will continue to work together long after the project finishes.”
The project’s next symposium will be held in the UK in June 2026.