Aisha Abubakar

I graduated from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria in Nigeria, where I obtained Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Architectural Design. My dissertation topic was centred on exploring Eco-Architecture to promote tourism.

However, it was in the course of research for my thesis towards an MEPP award (master in environmental planning and protection), from the university of Abuja in 2013 that I came to comprehend some of the varied dynamics at play in slum communities. This exercise also informed me of the potential to improve institutional capacities towards engaging slums in contributing to peoples’ (and consequently) cities wellbeing.

Slum urbanism has become a consistent (a third of urban patterns, in some regions up to 70%), yet evolving urban pattern in Developing Region cities.  

My research here at Strathclyde identified two interrelated gaps for exploration; the first was the need for more integrative (to city) and positively focused approaches to managing slum settlement; and secondly, the need for a standard conception and definition of the slum. My hypothesis is that Unless the general perceptions of slum are simplified and given an adequate conception as an entity that can be comprehended within a context of city development; it will continue to be a challenge. The concept of prosperity seems a core principle guiding both (cities and slum) urban development focus. As such my work involves extensive literature survey to conceive two interesting subjects-slums and prosperity; including extending research from the theory of human motivation and needs to develop a better understanding of these. Ultimately, I aim to propose a new and appropriate conception of the slum, and an operational framework model for prosperity in slums as a guide towards proper intervention.