Architects  Produce Third of Translated Books: Prof

In an interview with Resalah, Professor Dr. Khalid bin Sekait, chair of urban planning at the College of Architecture and Planning , says our problem is English. Students do not know English while all references are in English.

Resalah: What about the planning department in the development process on campus?

Prof Sekait: It is the most effective department that has responded positively with the community as many faculty members are seconded thanks to high demand on them. It witnessed radial change in three things: the academic plan was thoroughly changed; MSC programme for real estate development was approved; and the Saudi Association for Real Estate Science was set up.  The department is the first in the Middle East to attain membership of the Association of European Schools of Planning.

Resalah: Has the membership got something to do with academic accreditation?

Prof Sekait: No, even in Europe. Planning means to serve the society in which you live and develop regulations to make people lead a better life in better cities and environment.

Resalah: What is the major obstacle the department is facing?

Prof Sekait: English. Most students do not know English. This is why the department translate third of total figure of translated books on campus. However, we cannot bridge the gap as 40% of success depends on delving into references which students cannot do. The Preliminary Year program worked out a program to teach English for freshmen and I do call for teaching English at the primary stage.    

Resalah: What about researching?

Prof Sekait: Unfortunately, it is not up to expectations because professors are banned to practice building off campus. Architecture is not well taught if professor do not practice architecture. All books writers, most of them are Americans, practice the profession and 90% of professors worldwide do practice.

Resalah: This means that you suggest changing the agreements with professors into short-term contracts?

Prof Sekait: This is better for the interest of work.  I remember what L.  Andree , one of the well-known planners in the USA,  said one could not write up a book without practicing.  Even the dean of the American Institute of Architects said, “Even the dean must practice!” You see the dean must also practice architecture not only the professor.

Resalah: How far the researching action is affected with lack of practice?

Prof Sekait:  The professors cannot conduct researches with no real practice. Researchers in medicine have plenty of case studies, while we haven’t. This is why we have to recruit experienced architects from abroad despite that the college has been graduating alumni for 40 years.

Resalah: Why did not you raise the issue with the KSU?

Prof Sekait: The best thing the KSU could do for us is to make allowances for the professors of architecture and planning.  It has approved this regulation recently.