IBA Karachi hosts Annual Population Research Conference

IBA Karachi hosted a two-day 25th Annual Population Research Conference, focusing on the pathways to sustainable development, which was organized in collaboration with Population Association of Pakistan (PAP) and the Population Research Centre (PRC) at the IBA School of Economics & Social Sciences.

According to the IBA statement issued today, the partnership with the PAP highlights IBA’s dedication to fostering Collaboration among Scholars, Policymakers, and Practitioners to address Pakistan’s Evolving Demographic Challenges.

The first panel, “Pakistan @ 2050,” moderated by Dr. Asma Hyder, Dean, School of Economics & Social Sciences, focused on the country’s future challenges, including Poverty, Urbanization, And Climate Change. Experts like Dr. Zeba Sathar, Senior Associate & Pakistan Country Director, Population Council; Dr. Heman Das Lohano, Professor of Economics, IBA, Karachi, and Dr. G.M. Arif, Former Joint Director, Pakistan Institute of Development Economics &President Executive Council, PAP, delved into Pakistan’s demographic trajectory, examining how Rapid Urbanization—projected to see over half of the population living in cities by 2050—will impact the Nation’s Social and Economic Landscape. With 40% of urban residents currently living in slums, the discussion emphasized the urgent need for policies to address the opportunities and risks posed by urban growth and climate change, particularly in relation to migration and demographic shifts.