On January 15, 2025, EPOKA University welcomed urban designer, researcher, and activist Simon Battisti for an open lecture titled Cities for Children: Improving School Streets in Tirana. This special event, organized for our architecture students, highlighted innovative approaches to creating safer, more inclusive urban spaces for children.
Simon Battisti, founder of the NGO Qendra Marrëdhënie, brought a unique and insightful perspective on how to reimagine the streets surrounding schools in Tirana. His vision prioritizes children and pedestrians over vehicles, challenging traditional urban planning methods and fostering sustainable change.
During the lecture, Battisti shared:
The session sparked meaningful discussions among attendees about the role of urban design in transforming public spaces. Students engaged with ideas that emphasized the importance of prioritizing people over cars, aligning with global trends in sustainable city planning.
This event not only enriched our students’ understanding of urban activism but also inspired them to envision a future where Tirana’s streets can become safer and more accessible for everyone—especially its youngest citizens.
We extend our gratitude to Simon Battisti for his thought-provoking lecture and for sharing his expertise with the EPOKA community.