The 2017 PASCAL International Observatory Conference “Trends 2017 – Between Cities and the Rural: The Role of Universities” takes place on 17-19 October 2017. Delegates are reminded of the change of venue for this Conference to Pretoria. This change made the Conference more accessible and therefore more delegates can attend this event. The change sparked an immediate increase in the number of Conference papers submitted.

We are pleased to have received submissions from all continents and that they all promise valuable contributions to this year’s Conference. I would like to highlight the contribution of Prof. Peter Kearns OAM, who will deliver a keynote address “How do we progress towards a just, human-centred sustainable world?”:

The Conference is taking place at a critical time with starkly competing visions of the future. The paper argues for steps that should be taken in moving towards a just, human-centred sustainable world. It builds on PASCAL experience with integrated development in cities, and puts the case for extended partnerships. Data is drawn on to compare progress in cities around the world towards sustainable development, and to suggest priorities in different contexts.

The situation of learning city initiatives in Africa is taken as an example of barriers to be addressed. The key roles of universities and local government is discussed along with the need for connecting learning in urban and rural contexts in more holistic and integrated strategies. Happiness surveys are discussed as an aspect of improved monitoring of social aspects of sustainable development. Some suggestions are made for desirable action in Africa for progressing in good directions.

In addition to the presentations, the Conference will also host multiple discussion panels. These events will feature discussions between Universities, Government, and Industries on issues like: The need for greater coordinated collaboration between universities, government, and industry, and The need for building knowledge societies to positively impact regions.

Many submissions for papers have been received, but we are providing an extra opportunity for interested delegates to submit a final proposal and add value to Conference. This may be done to [email protected] by August 21, 2017. Prospective delegates who have not yet registered are invited to do so by visiting the Conference website.

I look forward to hosting you all at this event in Africa.

Enrico Jacobs – Conference Chair