An interactive session on “Anthropology in Pakistan: Challenges and Perspectives,” was organized by the Department of Anthropology and Archeology, University of Sindh

Jamshoro, Sindh

Role of anthropologists against rising socio-economic challenges in Pakistan was highlighted at an interactive session titled “Anthropology in Pakistan: Challenges and Perspectives,” organized by the Department of Anthropology and Archeology, University of Sindh Jamshoro on Monday.

Former professor at Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad & renowned anthropologist Prof. Dr. Syed Anwar Iqbal Shaheen was the keynote speaker.

Engaging with a large number of participants comprising students & faculty, Dr. Shaheen underscored the holistic nature and scope of anthropology, spanning cultural, linguistic, physical, archaeological and applied dimensions.

This interdisciplinary approach, he said, provided a diverse perspective crucial for comprehending and resolving the complex issues facing our society.

Highlighting the global and local need for anthropologists, he stressed their role in offering recommendations amid escalating societal challenges marked by increasing intolerance and radicalization.

Addressing the post-COVID economic landscape, he noted observable changes in human behavior, attributing them to economic fragility, political instability and social polarization where anthropologists could play a critical role through producing quality research.

Dr. Shaheen highlighted the significance of anthropology and development in Pakistan, citing examples from his own experiences of working with various development projects.

He shared his experiences by highlighting his involvement in development projects such as rural electrification and socioeconomic development, forestry, acute respiratory diseases and garbage management.

He drew attention to the career-oriented fields of medical anthropology and clinical anthropology.

Dr. Shaheen announced establishing the computer lab for the students in the department of Anthropology and Archaeology and donating books for the seminar library of the department.

Chairman, Department of Anthropology & Archeology Dr. M. Hanif Leghari warmly welcomed the guest, highlighting the department’s progress.

Dr. Abdul Razaque Channa presented Tote bag made of traditional Ajrak and Lungi to the guest.

Prof. M. Mukhtiar Kazi and Prof. Dr. Agha Asad Noor lauded Prof. Dr. Syed Anwar Iqbal for his dedication to the profession and decorated him with the Ajrak.

They urged students to focus on research and technology, asserting that anthropology and archaeology thrive on robust research.

The department’s faculty, including Dr. Rafique Wassan, Dr. Muhbat Ali Shah, Ali Taqi, Suneel, Ms. Umbreen Soomro, Ali Taquai Shah, Ms. Quratullain, Sadaf and Hamid Gadahi, actively participated in discussions with students.

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Published under International Cooperation with "Sindh Courier"