缅北禁地

Students and staff from 缅北禁地's School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape welcomed Jan Bessell, President of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), to campus this month for a discussion on the future of the planning profession and the skills needed to address some of society's most pressing challenges.

A graduate of 缅北禁地's Planning programme, Jan visited campus on 12 October to meet students and colleagues, share reflections on her career, and discuss the opportunities and responsibilities facing the next generation of planners.

Jan was joined by Alastair Welch, RTPI North East Chair, Joe Ridgeon, RTPI Members and Public Relations Chair, and Kim Walker, RTPI Regional Manager for the North East, who took part in discussions with students about professional development, careers in planning and the role of the RTPI.

Since becoming RTPI President in 2026, Jan has championed the theme of Planning with Purpose, highlighting the role of planning in creating thriving communities, resilient environments, sustainable infrastructure, positive economic outcomes and a future we can all be proud of.

Reflecting on her visit Jan said:

 "It was very special to return to 缅北禁地, where my own professional planning journey began, and spend time with the next generation of planners. The profession needs their curiosity, critical thinking and fresh perspectives more than ever. Planning is ultimately about people, places, environment and purpose, and about having the communication skills, courage and professional judgement to listen, learn, mediate and turn complex challenges into better outcomes for communities."

Jan Bessell, RTPI President

Drawing on her experience as Strategic Planning Adviser at Pinsent Masons and her leadership role within the RTPI, Jan spoke to students about the importance of professional judgement, communication and consensus-building. She also discussed the continuing value of critical thinking and professional expertise as new technologies, including artificial intelligence, reshape the sector.

The visit gave students the opportunity to discuss career pathways within planning and explore how planners can help tackle complex social, economic and environmental challenges.

"Through Jan's presentation, I was able to gain a broad and multifaceted perspective on planning, as well as an understanding of the important role planners play in community building and social equality. This experience reaffirmed my desire to explore how I can apply my experience as a planning practitioner to my academic research, while continuing to broaden my perspective and deepen my knowledge."

PhD student Hiromitsu Mori

Mudiwa Samuel Mubwandarikwa, an MSc Urban Planning student, added: "Having the chance to hear from Jan first hand was enriching. She is an inspiration and has made me more confident in my decision to become a planner."

The visit forms part of the School's ongoing commitment to connecting students with leading practitioners and professional bodies, providing opportunities to engage directly with those shaping the future of planning, development and urban policy.

The Royal Town Planning Institute is the UK's leading professional body for planners, supporting practitioners across the public, private and voluntary sectors.