IBA Karachi’s School of Business Studies (IBA-SBS) organizes the “4th International Conference
2025″, themed “Transforming Business for People and Planet”, at the Main Campus. The event brought together
esteemed academics, corporate leaders, researchers, and students from across the globe for critical dialogue around
global economic uncertainty, climate challenges, and business innovation.
In his inaugural remarks, Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director, IBA Karachi, reflected on the complex geopolitical realities
and ongoing economic crises shaping the global business environment. He emphasized the urgent need to recognize
problems and collaborate on practical solutions, highlighting the role of academic platforms like this conference. Dr.
Zaidi also stressed the importance of responsible corporate behavior, referencing climate change and corporate social
responsibility (CSR) as urgent priorities.
Dr. Abdullah Zafar Sheikh, Dean, IBA-SBS and Conference Chair, energized the audience with a quote from Steve Jobs:
“We are going to make a dent in this universe.” He emphasized that business excellence should not come at the cost
of employee well-being. “Fair wages, inclusive growth, and a balance between shareholders and stakeholders are key
to sustainable business leadership,” he noted. Dr. Sheikh also proudly shared that over 250 global CEOs are IBA alumni,
signifying IBA’s longstanding influence in international business.
Conference Convener, Dr. Aitzaz Ahsan Alias Sarang, opened the academic sessions by shedding light on the
vulnerability of developing nations to climate change. He emphasized the urgency of adopting a green taxonomy to
guide sustainable investments and policy frameworks. Dr. Aitzaz shared that 209 research paper submissions were
received from over 55 universities, of which 80 percent were selected to be presented at the conference.
The IBA-SBS 4th International Conference on ‘Transforming Business for People and Planet’ is a valuable platform for
knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration, bringing together thought leaders, practitioners, and
policymakers. The first day of the conference featured a panel discussion on ‘Pakistan’s Critical Need for Climate
Finance: Mobilizing the Private Sector,’; keynote addresses on ‘Rising Above the Chaos: How Governance of Purpose-
driven Organisations is THE Shared Leadership Agenda,’ and ‘Driving the Sustainability Transition: Legal, Policy and
Corporate Innovations’ and parallel technical sessions. The second day will continue with the last keynote address,
technical sessions, followed by the closing ceremony.
