Two-Day International Workshop on Thar’s Ecology, Economy, Community kicked off at SU
A two-day international workshop titled "Beyond the Border: Ecology, Economy, and Community in the Thar" has successfully started at the Benazir Research Center, University of Sindh, Jamshoro here on Thursday. The workshop was organized by the American Institute of Pakistan Studies (AIPS), the Pakistan Study Center and the Department of History, University of Sindh Jmashoro.
The event’s inaugural session was chaired by Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalil-ur-Rehman Khoumbhati, who emphasized the significance of Thar’s ecology and economy within a broader regional context.
In his address, Dr. Khoumbhati said that the desert region held substantial potential for sustainable development, contingent upon its careful exploration and management.
He stressed the need for interdisciplinary research to address environmental challenges and improve the livelihoods of local communities.
He highlighted the pivotal role of academic institutions in shaping policies that foster ecological balance and economic growth.
Dr. Khoumbhati also underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between researchers and policymakers to devise innovative solutions aimed at the socio-economic development of the region.
Former Vice-Chancellor of Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam Professor Dr. Fateh Muhammad Mari also addressed the session, offering valuable insights into the historical and socio-economic dynamics of Thar.
He emphasized the necessity of preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage while implementing development initiatives.
He highlighted the importance of empowering local communities through educational and skill development programs, while also drawing attention to the adverse impacts of climate change on Thar’s fragile ecosystem.
He called for the introduction of adaptive strategies and sustainable economic models to ensure long-term benefits for the people of Thar.
In his remarks, SU Registrar Professor Dr. Mushtaque Ali Jariko spoke on the crucial role of universities in conducting research that addresses regional issues.
He acknowledged Thar’s history of resilience, with its people adapting to the harsh climatic conditions of the region.
Dr. Jariko advocated for policy interventions focused on water conservation and renewable energy solutions, further stressing the need for academic-industry collaborations to generate employment opportunities for the youth.
He expressed hope that workshops like this would lead to actionable research and policy recommendations.
Director of the Pakistan Study Center Professor Dr. Shuja Ahmed Mahesar added to the discussions by emphasizing the importance of addressing the social, cultural and economic challenges facing the region and how collaborative efforts could create sustainable solutions.
a scholar from the University of Pennsylvania, USA Dr. Brian Cannon shared his perspectives on the interconnectedness of environmental and economic systems in desert regions.
He spoke on the significance of transnational research collaborations and the role of academic institutions in fostering innovative approaches to sustainable development.
The inaugural session was moderated by Dr. Abdul Razaq Channa with Dr. Irfan Shaikh delivering the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the speakers, organizers and participants for their contributions.
Later in the event, scholars including Dr. Noor Ahmed Janjhi, Dr. Syed Minhaj-ul-Hassan, Akash Kumar, Hasba Tufail, Amjad Ali and Dr. Erum Shaikh presented their research papers aligned with the core theme of the workshop. The international conference will also continue today (Friday), with additional scholars presenting their findings, followed by the concluding ceremony.
