Karachi: A significant global dialogue on the future of the next generation commenced today as the 13th International Conference on ‘Raising Children in Our Times,’ organized by the Aga Khan University’s Institute for Educational Development, started in Karachi. The event underscored the collective responsibility of society in raising children amid pressing global challenges.
Chief Guest Syed Sardar Ali Shah, Minister for Education and Culture, Sindh, stressed the importance of nurturing children, declaring it the “fundamental challenge of our era.” He emphasized that the future is shaped not in legislative halls or industries, but in the spaces we create for our children.
Dr. Farid Panjwani, Dean of IED, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need to view child-rearing as a shared social responsibility rather than an individual one. He questioned the role of media, corporations, and the state in shaping the environment in which children grow.
Keynote speaker Dr. Lynne Wolbert of Vrije University Amsterdam addressed the ethical challenges of raising children in a world fraught with issues such as inequality, digital overload, and climate change. She questioned how society can aim to nurture thriving individuals given these conditions.
The conference’s first day featured a panel on “Raising Resilient Learners in a Digital and Divided World,” which included experts discussing ways to foster resilience and empathy in education. Another panel, “Beyond Survival: Shaping Safe and Supportive Spaces for the Modern Child,” focused on disability inclusion and supportive environments.
Looking forward, the conference aims to move from philosophical discussions to practical strategies, developing actionable plans for modern childhood. Sessions will cover topics such as Early Childhood Education, economic disparities, technology’s impact, mental health, and moral development.
The gathering seeks to advocate for inclusion and redefine the skills necessary for lifelong learning, highlighting the importance of the arts, humanities, and imagination in child development.