Ahmedabad,Kashmir Pen 23 February 2025 – Anant National University recently hosted the International Conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices: Designing Sustainable Futures, bringing together global thought leaders, policymakers and scholars to explore the role of Indigenous knowledge in addressing today’s pressing environmental, social and economic challenges.
Among the key dignitaries actively participating in the conference were Dr Bashir Ahmad Veeri, a Member of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly, and Dr Raja Muzaffar Bhat, a social and environmental activist and an Anant Fellowship for Climate Action Fellow. Both Dr Veeri and Dr Bhat contributed with their expertise and knowledge, reinforcing the conference’s focus on integrating Indigenous knowledge with contemporary sustainability practices. They advocated the involvement of Indigenous wisdom keepers in shaping sustainability-driven policies and initiatives and ensuring their wisdom is passed on to the next generation.
Led by Dr Anunaya Chaubey, Provost, Anant National University, and Dr Rajendra Singh, Professor of Practice at Anant, the conference featured keynote addresses by Prof Sonajharia Minz and Prof Rishi Narain Singh, providing a platform for thought leaders, policymakers and scholars to engage in meaningful discussions on sustainable solutions in response to escalating environmental challenges, social inequalities and economic instability.
Talking about the conference, Dr Anunaya Chaubey, Provost, Anant National University, shared, “At Anant, we believe that Indigenous knowledge holds timeless wisdom for building a sustainable future. Hosting such events allows us to bring global voices together, fostering dialogue between tradition and contemporary innovation. These events give young minds a deeper understanding of sustainability, culture and design, inspiring them to explore solutions rooted in traditions while embracing modern advancements.”
The conference offered immersive learning opportunities for Anant students as the participating artists and experts engaged with them through workshops, discussions and interactive sessions, taking Anant’s DesignX philosophy forward and reinforcing Anant’s commitment to preparing and empowering the next generation of problem solvers. Kashmir Pen
