Strategies connecting a city. Case study of Singapore, a model for Prishtina

Author: Sim Kai Li
Affiliation:  Ferrara University

Abstract
It is easier to replicate the success stories of another than to start with fresh ideas, whether it is on micro or macro scale. This is no exception regarding the case of developing a city. Replicating best practices of a developed county to a developing city will be an effective approach, though no model can be applied in totality to any circumstances.
At the time of its independence in 1965, Singapore was lacking in infrastructure and natural resources, had poor sanitation and housing, high unemployment, education concerns, and was urgently in search of strategies to connect its people to the country.
Believing in its people and public spaces to connect the country, Singapore started investing in physical infrastructure, developing large public housing estates and putting emphasis on public education. It worked on a combination of government initiatives, public policies and private sector participation.
Singapore is a unique multi-racial society with a culture of self-reliance and mutual support which the government strongly advocated. Faith between government and the people were built over the years through upholding of meritocracy, pragmatism and honesty. Once the expectation of basic food, shelter, health, education and employment were taken care of, Singapore proceeded to engage culture and heritage to connect its citizens and thereafter to promote tourism.
Similarly, in order to transform a developing city, it may be worthwhile to adopt the key primary factors Singapore has relied on. The strategies discussed may be applicable to Prishtina, capital of Kosova , where there are plans to develop it to another capital city of Europe. Prishtina has a land size of 572km2 which is almost similar to Singapore. It is also a multi-ethnic country, rich in history, heritage and monuments.
The objectives of this paper are to examine the success factors of Singapore in its development roadmap since independence and to apply the relevant factors in molding Prishtina as the upcoming capital of Europe.