The College of Engineering at the University of Baghdad recently held a public defense for PhD candidate Afnan Abbas Hadi Al-Khafaji from the Department of Architecture. Her dissertation, titled “The Role of Signage in the Urban Identity of Iraqi Cities,” was presented on Monday, December 23, 2024, in the Mohammed Makiya Hall under the supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Sajida Kazim Al-Kindi.
The dissertation aims to develop a comprehensive knowledge framework that includes mechanisms to enhance the urban identity of existing cities and establish competitive signage strategies for new cities, grounded in urban identity. This is achieved by fostering both explicit and implicit signage structures at urban and architectural levels.
Key Recommendations:
- Adopting a Local Hybrid Conceptual Model for Signage:
The dissertation advocates for utilizing a hybrid conceptual model of signage as a holistic approach in urban and architectural design. This model integrates explicit and implicit dimensions of urban identity, motivating planners and designers to enhance the identity and character of cities through urban branding processes while preserving the identity of both existing and newly established cities. - Implementing Signage Strategies Post-Design and Execution:
The research emphasizes the need to adopt signage methodologies for post-project assessment. This involves utilizing a set of primary and secondary indicators to evaluate the efficiency of urban enhancement projects in fostering emotional and sentimental attachment to urban signage—spanning aspects such as place, architecture, and urban form—among individuals. - Establishing a Reciprocal Relationship Between Identity and Signage:
The study highlights the interdependent relationship between urban identity and signage, rooted in foundational dimensions such as architecture, place, identity, and form. This approach not only creates iconic places that resonate across generations but also reinforces urban identity through societal values, principles, and traditions. - Strategic Site Selection for New Cities:
The research underscores the importance of selecting strategic locations for new cities. These sites should align with both explicit and implicit signage structures, emphasizing locality to strengthen urban identity.
Following the academic discussion and thorough evaluation by the defense committee, the candidate was awarded a PhD in Architectural Engineering.
Examination Committee:
- Professor Dr. Saad Fawzi Tu’ma (Chair)
- Assistant Professor Dr. Mufeed Ihsan Al-Shouk (Member)
- Assistant Professor Dr. Abdul Hussein Al-Askari (Member)
- Assistant Professor Dr. Shatha Abbas Hassan (Member)
- Assistant Professor Dr. Amjad Mahmoud Al-Badri (Member)
- Assistant Professor Dr. Sajida Kazim Al-Kindi (Member and Supervisor)
