USM collaborates actively with local authorities to address critical planning and development issues, particularly focusing on ensuring local residents have access to affordable housing. As part of this initiative, USM participated in a roundtable with Think City and the World Bank on June 26, 2023. The discussion, which included stakeholders from federal and local governments, aimed to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization. Key outcomes include the development of holistic solutions for urban-rural interdependencies and policies to improve affordable housing accessibility for local communities.