International Conference 2012 on
‘In Search of Relevance and Sustainability of Educational Change’
AKU-IED organized it 9th international conference focusing on “In Search of Relevance and Sustainability of Educational Change” from November 1-3, 2012.
The backdrop of the conference was the narrative of educational change which is in making during the past few decades. The country has witnessed and experienced educational reforms around curriculum, examination, teacher education, and community engagement. These reforms were conceptualized and initiated by the involvement of stakeholders both internal and external to the country.
The conference called for critically reflection on the extent of relevance of education system in contemporary times; gaps inherent in the education systems; and alternative/innovative ‘solutions’ for effective, relevant and sustainable changes. Key question addressed by the speakers and presenters also delineated ways to promote to peace, resilience and societal harmony through Innovative pedagogies, learner and learning spaces, assessment, relevant curriculum, and responsive governance and management practices.
AKU's Provost Dr Greg Moran delivered opening remarks, which was followed by an inaugural speech by the chief guest Dr Pervez Amir Ali Hoodbhoy.
The eminent national and international scholars who delivered their scholarly talks included:
- Professor Andy Hargreaves, Thomas More Brennan Chair, Lynch School of Education, Boston College, USA
- Professor G. I. Chandralatha Gunawardena, COL-UNESCO Chair in Distance Education, Open University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka
- Dr Thomas Christie, Director, AKU Examination Board
- Dr Joshua Muskin, Senior Education Programme Officer, Aga Khan Foundation, Geneva
- Dr Bernadette L. Dean, Principal, St. Joseph’s College for Women, Karachi
- Ms Sadiqa Salahuddin, Director, Indus Resource Centre, Karachi
The three-day conference was attended by over 400 national and international delegates who represented academia, research institutes, teacher training institutions, educational development agencies, public and private sector education systems, UNICEF and Higher Education Commission.
