Assistant Professor Dr. Abdulhussein Al-Askari, a faculty member in the Department of Architecture at the University of Baghdad, participated in the master’s thesis defense of student Layla Ahmed Qasim from the Department of Spatial Planning, College of Urban Planning, University of Duhok. The thesis is entitled:
“Enhancing Social Interaction through Urban Open Space Design: A Study of Quality, Quantity, and Accessibility in Duhok City.”
The thesis addressed the topic of enhancing social interaction in urban open spaces by achieving the concepts of quality, quantity, and accessibility.
The study selected four large parks in the city of Duhok, which are considered the closest representation of green open spaces. Indicators from the theoretical framework were applied—these indicators represented the relationships between social interaction theory concepts and the concepts of quality, quantity, and accessibility—across the four study areas. In addition, questionnaires were distributed to users, which revealed points of strength, weakness, and actual needs.
In the methodology chapter, the thesis explained the approach of analysis and comparison. The researcher was able to formulate her conclusions in a way that provides comprehensive scientific guidance for executive bodies in urban management, to implement these insights and achieve an optimal model of social interaction in urban spaces.
The defense took place on Sunday, April 6, 2025, in the Department of Spatial Planning at the College of Urban Planning, University of Duhok.
The examination committee consisted of:
- Chair: Assistant Professor Dr. Layla Mohammed Rasool
- Member: Assistant Professor Dr. Abdulhussein Abdulali Al-Askari
- Member: Lecturer Dr. Mustafa Mohammed Amin
- Supervisor: Assistant Professor Dr. Lida Isa Zada
After an in-depth scientific discussion and a thorough defense by the student, the committee decided to accept the thesis and grant the researcher a master’s degree.
We wish the student and her supervisor continued success and look forward to further fruitful cooperation between our esteemed Iraqi universities.
