MEMBERS of the Jamaican Institute of Architects (JIA) and other architects will be offered three continuing professional development (CPD) points when they attend the inaugural Maurice Facey Lecture.

The lecture, set for the Jamaica Conference Centre in downtown Kingston on Thursday, will feautre a presentation from architect and urban planner Pedro Ortiz, who will present on ‘The Cost of Chaos: Envisioning a Resilient Metropolis’.

“JIA values these opportunities, which provide its members with the ability to maintain, enhance and/or increase the knowledge and continuing ability of architects,” said the institute’s president, Stacey-Ann Dennison-Heron.

The JIA, which is celebrating JIA Week, under the theme ‘Architecture for All’, said the lecture offers a unique opportunity for diverse audiences to experience the value of urban planning and architecture.

The three CPD points gained by the architects are an indication of advancement, progression, and increased proficiency within the profession, said the JIA.

Dennison-Heron said the JIA supports the vision of PanJam Investment Limited and its other partners, University of Technology Jamaica’s Caribbean School of Architecture, Urban Development Corporation, Jamaica Chamber of Commerce and the Kingston Restoration Company to host the lecture.

“…As the urban spaces in Jamaica develop and densify, the improvement in the quality of our spaces becomes paramount in planning for the future. We look forward to Ortiz’s presentation,” said Dennison-Heron.

The free lecture will also aim to recognise the career of Maurice Facey and his passion for the city of Kingston. It will be the first of a series and seeks to start a discussion around the urban development of Kingston to provoke action that can be replicated across the island.