KARACHI – Institute of Business Administration Karachi hosted its first-ever Psychology Conference on April 17, 2026, alongside the inauguration of the Psychology Research and Testing Lab (PsychREST), marking a significant step in advancing social sciences research in Pakistan.
Organized by the School of Economics and Social Sciences (IBA-SESS), the three-day conference is themed “Rediscovering the Roots and Intersectionality of Psychology.” The event features panel discussions, interactive workshops, and student research exhibitions, covering diverse fields including clinical, counseling, educational, forensic, organizational, and health psychology.
The conference opened with remarks by Dr. Yaqoob Bangash, followed by a session on the conference’s central metaphor, “Angan” (courtyard), presented by Dr. Shameel Khan. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Nicholas Sarra, an experienced group analyst affiliated with University of Exeter and a member of the Institute of Group Analysis.
Other notable attendees included Dr. Laila Sohail Farooq and Dr. Saima Binte Saif, along with faculty members and students.
A key highlight of the event was the inauguration of PsychREST, a state-of-the-art facility equipped with licensed standardized tools for cognitive assessment, behavioral studies, and experimental psychology. The lab aims to provide students and researchers with a robust environment for academic and applied research.
IBA Karachi stated that the initiative reflects its commitment to a multidisciplinary academic approach, enabling students to tackle complex human and organizational challenges in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Recognized as one of Pakistan’s leading higher education institutions, IBA Karachi continues to expand its academic offerings while promoting innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.
