The Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi had the privilege of welcoming a high-profile delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for an engaging discussion with faculty members and students on Pakistan’s economic trajectory. The visit, organized by the IBA Center for Business and Economic Research (IBA-CBER), was led by Mr Nathan Porter, Mission Chief to Pakistan, along with Mr Mahir Binici, Resident Representative for Pakistan, and Mr. Muhammad Ali, Office Manager, IMF Pakistan.
The delegation was received at the IBA Main Campus by Dr Aadil Nakhoda, Assistant Professor and Research Fellow at IBA-CBER, who set the stage for a thought-provoking faculty discussion. Key faculty members from the IBA School of Economics and Social Sciences (IBA-SESS) were in attendance, including Dr Asma Hyder, Dean of IBA-SESS, and distinguished members of the Economics Department such as Dr Muhammad Nasir, Chairperson; Dr Qazi Masood Ahmed, Professor; Dr Muhammad Salman Khalid and Dr Syed Ateeb Akhter Shah, Assistant Professors; and Ms Javeria Younas Abbasi, Lecturer.
During the faculty discussion, participants engaged in an in-depth exchange on critical economic and policy matters relevant to Pakistan’s financial stability and growth prospects. The conversation provided valuable insights into macroeconomic challenges, fiscal strategies, and policy recommendations for sustainable economic development.
Following the faculty session, the IMF delegation took part in a student interaction session titled ‘Pakistan’s Way Forward.’ Mr Porter shared his expertise on Pakistan’s macroeconomic landscape, offering perspectives on policy development and future economic challenges. The session featured an interactive Q&A segment, where students actively engaged with the IMF representatives, posing insightful questions on economic policies, fiscal reforms, and global financial trends. The IMF officials responded thoughtfully, fostering a dynamic and enlightening discussion.
The visit concluded with a formal gesture of appreciation from the IBA fraternity. Dr Hyder expressed gratitude to the IMF delegation and presented a token of appreciation to Mr Porter, while Dr Qazi honored Mr. Binici with a similar acknowledgment. A group photograph marked the culmination of the successful engagement, reinforcing IBA’s commitment to fostering meaningful academic and policy discussions.
IBA-CBER continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue on Pakistan’s economic and financial landscape, bringing together policymakers, academics, and students for impactful discussions that contribute to the nation’s economic progress.