Karachi: IBA Karachi recently organized the Sixth Annual International Conference on "Beyond Polycrisis: Pathways Towards a Sustainable Economic Future," bringing together a wide range of participants to discuss how Pakistan can navigate its intertwined economic, climate, and governance challenges. The two-day event was a collaborative effort by the IBA Center for Business & Economic Research (CBER), in association with the World Bank Group, Sindh Higher Education Commission, NOWPDP, Dawn Media, and Avari Towers.

According to Center For Information and Communication Technologies, Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director of IBA Karachi, highlighted the interconnected nature of Pakistan's challenges, emphasizing the need for greater focus on climate change and population growth. He noted the country's population is expected to rise to 270 million by 2030, compounding existing issues. Dr. Yaqoob Khan Bangash, Professor & Dean, SESS, underscored the importance of moving beyond crisis survival to genuine progress.

The conference featured a keynote address by Prof. Adil Najam from Boston University, who discussed the urgent need to integrate climate considerations into broader policy areas. Prof. Iwi Ugiagbe-Green from Manchester Metropolitan University revisited Keynesian economic concepts, emphasizing well-being and planetary sustainability over traditional prosperity measures.

Sessions included discussions on resilience and leadership by Zafar Masud, President & CEO of the Bank of Punjab, and a dialogue with former Pakistani ministers Umar Saif and Miftah Ismail. Day two commenced with Dr. Lubna Naz, Professor & Director of CBER, advocating for research-driven solutions that connect economic resilience with climate action.

Senator Musadik Malik addressed the economic implications of climate disasters, while Senator Sherry Rehman highlighted Pakistan's strategic positioning in the global shift to renewable energy. Panel discussions also explored various critical issues, including job creation, the role of higher education in policymaking, and the impact of artificial intelligence on economic policy.

The conference concluded with reflections from attendees, reinforcing IBA's dedication to integrating research and policy to guide Pakistan towards a sustainable future.