More than 110 research papers were presented by scholars from all over the country and abroad on the thematic issues. Dr Mustaghis-ur-Rahman, the Conference Chair, in his welcome address said the importance of research in a society could be gauged by the fact that no region had achieved technological advancements and socio-economic development without the proliferation of research and innovations.
He added, "There is a need to multiply the resources devoted to research by having a stronger network of the institutions of higher learning all across the region and beyond". He further stated that universities should join hands in collaborating in research.
Dr Amanat Ali Jalbani, Vice President Academics in his speech stated that SZABIST despite being a relatively young educational institution had made significant contribution to research in addition academics. Chief Guest at the inaugural ceremony of the conference, Dr Khalida Ghous, Managing Director of Social Policy and Development Centre, appreciated the efforts of SZABIST in organising the international conference and said, "The importance of research in Pakistan is not understood properly hence, we are lagging behind to identifying solutions to our socio-economic problems."
She highlighted the key point for conducting the research and said, "In any of the civilised societies, good quality research feeds into the policy making process, so it is very important that good quality research output should add value to the policy making process".
SZABIST President Dr Saqib Rizavi emphasized that primary aim of the researchers should be to ensure relevance of their work to the socio-economic development of the country. He stated that collaboration in research among institutions would lead to reduced cost and a higher impact of the research output. In his concluding remarks during the closing ceremony of the conference on day-two, Dr Rizavi appreciated the organisers of the conference for making this event so successful. He highlighted the future agenda for research at SZABIST underscoring the need for greater emphasis on high quality empirical research in social sciences. He presented shields, as a token of appreciation, to session chairs and co-chairs. The conference was attended by many scholars, corporate delegates, and civil society representatives.-PR