HYBRID EVENT: You can participate in person at Durban, South Africa or Virtually from your home or work

Tentative Program

Conference Programme

Tentative Conference Agenda

Explore the proposed two-day programme developed around the conference Session Tracks and aligned United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Conference Format Hybrid Conference In-person and virtual participation
Programme 2 Days 3–4 October 2026
Academic Scope 11 Tracks Conference Session Tracks
Research Scope 20 Areas Call for Papers themes
SDG Alignment 6 SDGs SDGs 1, 4, 8, 9, 10 and 11
Tentative Agenda & Timings

Session timings, sequence, track grouping and allocations are tentative and subject to change. Final timings will be confirmed closer to the conference. All timings follow the local time of the conference location.

Day 01

Opening, Keynote & Technical Sessions

3 OCT 2026 HYBRID
  1. 09:00 AM 09:30 AM

    Registration, Welcome Kit Collection & Virtual Check-in

    Participant arrival, credential verification and virtual lobby access.

    HYBRID
  2. 09:30 AM 09:45 AM

    Networking Tea & Digital Welcome

    Informal networking for on-site and virtual participants.

    HYBRID
  3. 09:45 AM 10:30 AM

    Welcome Address, Opening Plenary & Keynote Presentation I

    Opening of the conference and introduction to its research focus.

    PLENARY
  4. 10:30 AM 12:30 PM

    Concurrent Technical Session I

    3 TRACKS
    Track 01
    Urban Anthropology: Theoretical Perspectives
    411
    Track Overview

    This track invites papers that explore the theoretical frameworks within urban anthropology, focusing on the dynamics of urban life. Contributions should critically engage with concepts such as space, place, and identity in contemporary urban settings.

    Track 02
    Migration and Urbanization: Intersecting Pathways
    810
    Track Overview

    This session examines the relationship between migration patterns and urbanization processes, highlighting how migration reshapes urban landscapes. Papers should address the implications of these transformations for social structures and community dynamics.

    Track 03
    Cultural Transformation in Urban Contexts
    411
    Track Overview

    This track focuses on the processes of cultural transformation that occur in urban environments, particularly in response to globalization and migration. Contributions should analyze how urban cultures evolve and adapt through social practices and community interactions.

  5. 12:30 PM 01:30 PM

    Lunch & Networking Break

    Refreshment interval and networking opportunity.

    BREAK
  6. 01:30 PM 03:30 PM

    Concurrent Technical Session II

    3 TRACKS
    Track 04
    Transnationalism and Urban Identities
    10
    Track Overview

    This session explores the concept of transnationalism and its impact on urban identities, emphasizing the experiences of diaspora communities. Papers should investigate how transnational ties influence cultural practices and social networks within cities.

    Track 05
    Social Change and Urban Communities
    111
    Track Overview

    This track invites discussions on the social changes occurring within urban communities, driven by factors such as migration, economic shifts, and policy interventions. Contributions should examine the resilience and adaptability of communities in the face of these changes.

    Track 06
    Informal Settlements and Urban Governance
    11
    Track Overview

    This session addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by informal settlements in urban areas, focusing on governance and policy responses. Papers should analyze the lived experiences of residents and the role of community agency in shaping urban policy.

  7. 03:30 PM 04:00 PM

    Interactive Q&A, Day 1 Summary & Group Photo

    Closing interaction and key takeaways from the first day.

    CLOSING
Day 02

Keynote, Technical Sessions & Awards

4 OCT 2026 HYBRID
  1. 09:00 AM 09:15 AM

    Participant Check-in & Day 2 Welcome

    On-site attendance confirmation and virtual lobby access.

    HYBRID
  2. 09:15 AM 10:00 AM

    Keynote Presentation II

    Expert address on the future of the conference research domain.

    PLENARY
  3. 10:00 AM 12:00 PM

    Concurrent Technical Session III

    3 TRACKS
    Track 07
    Urban Cultures and Social Practices
    410
    Track Overview

    This track investigates the diverse social practices that characterize urban cultures, including rituals, festivals, and everyday interactions. Contributions should highlight how these practices reflect and shape community identities in urban settings.

    Track 08
    Globalization and Urban Social Networks
    9
    Track Overview

    This session examines the impact of globalization on urban social networks, exploring how global connections influence local interactions. Papers should analyze the implications of these networks for community cohesion and identity formation.

    Track 09
    Identity and Belonging in Urban Spaces
    10
    Track Overview

    This track focuses on the construction of identity and notions of belonging within urban environments, particularly in multicultural contexts. Contributions should explore how urban spaces facilitate or hinder the expression of diverse identities.

  4. 12:00 PM 01:00 PM

    Lunch & Networking Break

    Refreshment interval and professional networking.

    BREAK
  5. 01:00 PM 03:00 PM

    Concurrent Technical Session IV

    2 TRACKS
    Track 10
    Urban Anthropology and Policy Implications
    14
    Track Overview

    This session invites papers that discuss the implications of urban anthropology for policy-making and urban planning. Contributions should critically assess how anthropological insights can inform more inclusive and effective urban policies.

    Track 11
    Social Practices in the Age of Urbanization
    811
    Track Overview

    This track explores the evolving social practices in the context of rapid urbanization, focusing on how these practices shape community life. Papers should investigate the interplay between social change and cultural continuity in urban settings.

  6. 03:00 PM 03:30 PM

    Publications, Best Paper & Best Presentation Awards

    Publication guidance and recognition of outstanding research contributions.

    AWARDS
  7. 03:30 PM 04:00 PM

    Valedictory Session, Closing Remarks & Group Photo

    Conference summary, acknowledgements and formal conclusion.

    CLOSING
Aligned SDGs
1 No Poverty 4 Quality Education 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure 10 Reduced Inequalities 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities

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