Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam, in collaboration with the Embassy of the People's Republic of China, Higher Education Commission Pakistan, Government of Sindh, University of Karachi, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur, Institute of Business Administration Sukkur, and Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering, Science, and Technology, is organizing an International Conference on, “CPEC: Collaboration in Higher Education and Sustainable Development” on 19th to 21st February 2014 at Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam.

Introduction

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a transformative initiative focused on enhancing trade and infrastructure between China and Pakistan. Energy infrastructure projects under CPEC are key components reshaping Pakistan's economy, environment, and socio-political landscape. This conference will explore the socio-economic and environmental impacts of these energy projects, with a focus on their effects on local livelihoods, gender roles, agriculture, and environmental resources.

Discussions will also examine the cultural harmony between China and Pakistan and the opportunities and challenges posed by this mega-development project. Funded by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan, this two-day interdisciplinary conference will provide a platform for scholars, policymakers, and experts to explore CPEC’s impact on Pakistan’s energy policies, economic growth, and societal transformation.

Participants will engage in discussions and share insights to foster collaboration and address key challenges.

CONFERENCE OBJECTIVES:

 The objectives of the conference are:

1.  Assess the socio-economic and environmental impacts of CPEC energy projects on local communities.


2.   To assess the cultural implications of the CPEC projects on the diverse ethnic and religious groups of Pakistan.


3.  Explore opportunities for cultural exchange and harmony between China and Pakistan.


4.  Examine the impact of CPEC on local livelihoods, gender rights, and agricultural development.


5.  Analyze how energy infrastructure is reshaping access to environmental resources.


6.  Engage scholars and policymakers in discussions on sustainable energy and infrastructure development.


7.  Identify challenges and opportunities in CPEC energy project implementation.


8.  Foster collaborations between academic institutions, researchers, and practitioners.


9. Discuss strategies for sustainable energy governance under CPEC.


10. Evaluate community perspectives, labor dynamics, and environmental concerns related to CPEC energy projects.


11. Explore future opportunities and challenges in the development phase of CPEC.

Thematic Areas of the Conference:

The conference will be divided into different themes with parallel sessions, each focusing on distinct sub-themes that address various aspects of the main topic.

1. Energy Policy and Governance under CPEC.
   • Strategic energy planning and policy frameworks.
   • Governance and public-private partnerships in energy infrastructure.
2. Environmental Impact and Sustainability
   • Environmental risks and mitigation strategies.
   • Sustainable energy practices and climate resilience.
3. Socio-Economic Development
   • CPEC-driven socio-economic transformations.
   • Impact of energy infrastructure on communities and employment.
4. Energy Security and Regional Cooperation
   • Challenges and solutions in energy security.
   • Cross-border energy projects and regional cooperation.
5. Technological Advancements
   • Innovative technologies in energy generation, smart grids, and energy storage.
   • Role of technology in optimizing energy efficiency.
6. Cultural Harmony between China & Pakistan
   • Enhancing mutual cultural understanding through CPEC.
   • Bridging cultural gaps via exchanges in traditions, language, and education.
7. Impact on Local Livelihoods
   • Effects of CPEC on employment, business, and quality of life.
   • Opportunities for skill development and employment in infrastructure projects.
8. Gender Rights and Opportunities
   • Women’s roles in CPEC-related developments.
   • Promoting gender inclusion in the energy sector.
9. Agriculture and Environmental Resources
   • CPEC’s impact on agricultural practices, water access, and crop patterns.
   • Sustainable resource management and resilience strategies.
10. Sustainable Development
    • Long-term environmental impacts of energy infrastructure.
    • Solutions for balancing development with environmental preservation.

Impact:

The impact of the International Conference on CPEC, focusing on higher education and sustainable development, will be significant in both the short-term and long-term.

Firstly, around two hundred participants—including students, scholars, faculty, diplomats, journalists, business leaders, and practitioners—will attend the various sessions of the conference. This exposure will enhance the participants' understanding of CPEC, a transformative regional initiative. The conference will also benefit policymakers and the general public through media coverage and the publication of the event proceedings, facilitating the dissemination of valuable insights and information.

Secondly, the conference will open avenues for collaboration in higher education between institutions in Pakistan and China. With more than two thousand universities and degree-awarding institutes in China, enrolling around six million students annually, these institutions offer various scholarships and faculty exchange programs. The conference will provide Sindh Agriculture University Tandojam and other Pakistani institutions an opportunity to strengthen educational cooperation, benefiting the youth by honing their skills and talents.