“We shape our cities; thereafter, they shape us.”
— Winston Churchill
What is the
International Urban Studies Olympiad?
The International Urban Studies Olympiad challenges students to explore and reimagine the cities of tomorrow by addressing issues from housing inequality and transit deserts to green infrastructure, public space, and post-pandemic urban resilience.
Participants in the regional round submit a research-based essay. Strong essays apply urban theory and real-world evidence to critically examine pressing urban issues.
Submissions are judged on their:
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Originality
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Clarity
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Depth of research
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Practicality of proposed solutions
(The essay is limited to 1000-words, see our Guidelines and Rules page for full details.)
Top-performing students from each region advance to the international round, to submit a short media piece such as a video, photo essay, montage, screen recording, infographic, or podcast episode in response to one of 3 prompts.
This round emphasizes creativity and public engagement, encouraging students to translate complex urban challenges into accessible and compelling media.
Media submissions are judged on:
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Effectiveness of communication
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Urban insight and accuracy
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Creativity and design
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Public relevance
See our Guidelines and Rules page for more information.
The Olympiad is entirely online and is an individual competition.
Judges Panel
It is with great enthusiasm that we present our judges panel. Below are world-renowned urban researchers, geographers, and architects that will be evaluating the knowledge exam and media submissions
Dr. Nia Akintola
PhD, Urban Planning – Harvard
MSc, LSE | BA, UCT
Dr. Akintola specializes in inclusive infrastructure, climate adaptation, and slum upgrading initiatives. Her global consultancy experience ensures that student work is evaluated through rigorous, real-world standards.