MoHUA proposes urban governance course with Osmania University

Hyderabad: Srinivas R Katikathala, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Government of India, visited the Regional Centre for Urban and Environmental Studies (RCUES), Hyderabad, to review and strengthen ongoing training and capacity-building programmes for urban sector professionals.

Review of training and urban governance programmes

During the visit, Srinivas interacted with Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kumar Molugaram, the Director, and faculty members of RCUES. The discussions covered initiatives in urban governance, municipal finance, sanitation, smart city management, geospatial applications and sustainable urban development.

The Secretary emphasised the need for ‘innovative training modules, technology-driven learning platforms, and sector-specific capacity enhancement to address emerging challenges in urban development.’

Proposal for certificate course in urban governance

Highlighting the importance of formal academic learning for municipal officials and urban planners, Srinivas proposed the introduction of a Certificate Course in collaboration with Osmania University.

“This initiative aims to strengthen capacity-building programmes for municipal officials, urban planners, and other stakeholders, enabling them to gain formal academic certification while enhancing their skills in urban governance and management,” he said.

Support from MoHUA and role of citizens

The Secretary commended RCUES Hyderabad for its partnerships with academic institutions, research bodies and international agencies to deliver training programmes.

He assured ‘full support from MoHUA in expanding the Centre’s reach and capabilities, with a focus on digital learning, thematic research, and practical skill-building for municipal functionaries and society in particular.’

He further stressed the role of individuals in improving city conditions, stating, “Every citizen must contribute by keeping cities garbage-free and utilising public transport for better mobility.”

RCUES contribution to urban management

Speaking at the event, Prof. Kumar Molugaram said, “The Regional Centre for Urban and Environmental Studies has been consistently catering to the capacity-building needs of municipal officials across the region. Improved civic management requires continuous learning and skill enhancement.”

Commitment to sustainable urban development

The visit reaffirmed MoHUA’s focus on building institutional capacity to support efficient, inclusive, and sustainable urban development across India. RCUES Hyderabad continues to serve as a key training and research hub for municipal governance and urban management.