The Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi’s School of Business Studies (SBS) successfully hosted the 4th International Conference 2025 under the theme “Transforming Business for People and Planet” on June 13-14 at its Main Campus. The event served as a vibrant forum for critical discussions on global economic instability, climate change, and sustainable business innovation, drawing participation from international scholars, business leaders, researchers, and students.
Inaugurating the conference, Dr S. Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director of IBA Karachi, set the tone by addressing the pressing geopolitical and economic challenges facing businesses worldwide. He underscored the importance of collaboration and academic inquiry in addressing urgent global problems. “We must move beyond recognizing challenges to developing actionable, responsible solutions,” Dr Zaidi urged, citing climate change and corporate social responsibility (CSR) as top priorities.
Dr Abdullah Zafar Sheikh, Dean of IBA-SBS and Chair of the Conference, delivered an impassioned opening, quoting Steve Jobs: “We are going to make a dent in this universe.” He emphasized that true business excellence must be anchored in ethical practices, fair wages, and inclusive growth. “Our leadership philosophy must serve both shareholders and stakeholders,” he stated, proudly acknowledging the impact of IBA alumni, over 250 of whom are CEOs of global companies.
Conference Convener Dr Aitzaz Ahsan Alias Sarang initiated the academic sessions by focusing on climate vulnerability in developing economies. He highlighted the need for a green taxonomy to guide sustainable investment and policymaking. Dr Sarang also announced that the conference received 209 research paper submissions from over 55 universities, with 80% selected for presentation, reflecting strong global engagement.
Day one of the conference featured robust panel discussions and keynote addresses. Highlights included a panel on “Pakistan’s Critical Need for Climate Finance: Mobilizing the Private Sector,” and keynote speeches on purpose-driven governance and innovations in sustainability law, policy, and corporate practices. Parallel technical sessions facilitated in-depth academic discourse.
The second day of the conference continued with final technical sessions and a concluding keynote, followed by a closing ceremony celebrating knowledge exchange, cross-sectoral collaboration, and the collective pursuit of a more sustainable future.
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The IBA-SBS International Conference continues to serve as a pivotal platform for fostering global dialogue on reimagining business strategies that are not only profitable but also equitable and environmentally responsible.