Urban October

 

“We know that there is still work left to alleviate homelessness and inferior living conditions for about 2.7 million poor families in Thailand. These are ongoing issues being addressed in the National Housing Master Plan, and issues which are of shared concern for the United Nations. This special exhibit highlights the achievements such as the provision of citywide housing for all, community savings and loan initiatives and housing programs for the vulnerable and homeless.” ─ Ms. Gita Sabharwal, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Thailand

Jointly celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations and 20th Anniversary of the Community Organizations Development Institute (CODI), UN-Habitat and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) in collaboration with partners including the National Housing Authority (NHA), CODI, Central World, Digital Economy and Promotion Agency (DEPA), Urban Creature, Association of Siamese Architects, Microsoft and Office of the UN Resident Coordinator, organized an exhibition commemorating Urban October in the heart of the Thai capital city at Central World, Bangkok, helping to raise awareness of the crucial role of housing in sustainable urban development.

Attracting over 1,000 visitors throughout five days, the exhibit featured pictures of Bangkok from the National Archives of Thailand, as well as, “Bangkok Then and Now” publication by Steve Van Beek. Opened by Mrs Jintana Chanbamrung, Inspector-General, Office of the Permanent Secretary, MSDHS, the launch was co-officiated by Ms Gita Sabharwal, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Thailand, Mr Patson Sarindu, International Marketing Manager, Central Pattana along with Dr Jakkanit Kananurak, Director (Quality of Life and Security Development and Promotion Department), DEPA. Welcoming senior representatives from the National Housing Authority, the launch was honored to be attended by NHA Deputy Governor, and NHA Assistant Governors Mrs Chadarat Chaisen, Mr Dulmonchai Viwatborvornwong, and Mr Khamhaeng Thong-In.

A panel discussion was held under the theme of ‘My Future, My City’, hearing from experts including Dr Athiwat Silamom, Director, Department of Innovation and Research, NHA; Dr Sopon Pornchokchai, President, Issarachon Foundation and Agency for Real Estate Affairs; Dr Non Arkaraprasertkul, Senior Expert, DEPA; and Ms Kamolchanok Boonketwattanakul, President of Youth with Sight Impairment Club. The conversation was enriched with practical suggestions to be integrated into future projects. Finally, the winning teams of a Gen-Z Hackathon presented on their innovative technological solutions supporting the needs of vulnerable groups including slum dwellers and vision impaired members of the community.