Karachi : International Conference on Globalization and Cultural Diversity (ICGCD 2026) Concludes at University of Karachi
The International Conference on Globalization and Cultural Diversity (ICGCD 2026) concluded on January 7, 2026, at the Chinese Teachers’ Memorial Auditorium, University of Karachi. The conference was organized by the Office of the Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Karachi, in collaboration with the Departments of Women’s Studies, Mass Communication, Political Science, and Library & Information Sciences, bringing together academics, researchers, and policymakers to deliberate on globalization, culture, and diversity.
In his remarks, Prof. Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, Vice Chancellor, University of Karachi, underscored the university’s commitment to fostering academic freedom and interdisciplinary research. He stated that globalization presents both opportunities and challenges, which must be addressed through informed scholarship and cultural understanding. He further emphasized that the University of Karachi will continue to support initiatives that encourage dialogue on identity, diversity, and global responsibility.
Addressing the conference as Chief Guest, Dr. Syed Saif ur Rehman, TI, Director General, National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA), highlighted the relevance of cultural diversity in public policy and governance. He remarked that policymakers must remain sensitive to cultural contexts while designing and implementing policies in an interconnected world. He added that academic platforms such as ICGCD play a vital role in bridging the gap between scholarly discourse and governance practices.
Delivering the concluding remarks, Prof. Sikander Mehdi emphasized that globalization must be understood beyond economic and technological dimensions, stressing the importance of cultural dialogue and mutual respect. He noted that universities serve as critical spaces for challenging dominant narratives and amplifying marginalized voices. He further stressed that sustained academic engagement is essential for promoting inclusivity and social cohesion in a rapidly globalizing world.
Earlier, Prof. Dr. Samina Saeed, Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, in her vote of thanks, appreciated the collective efforts of faculty members, students, and collaborating departments for the successful organization of the conference. She noted that such academic engagements enrich intellectual life on campus and strengthen interdepartmental collaboration. She expressed hope that the discussions would translate into future research initiatives and policy-oriented outcomes.
The session was coordinated by Prof. Dr. Asma Mazoor and concluded with the distribution of shields, followed by a tea break. The conference reinforced the University of Karachi’s role as a leading platform for critical discourse on globalization, cultural diversity, and social transformation in Pakistan.
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