Activities
Updated on 26 Apr, 2012
International Conference 'Diaspora and Development: Prospects and Implications for Nation States', 7-8 September 2011
The School of Extension and Development Studies (SOEDS) and School of Interdisciplinary and Trans-disciplinary Studies (SOITS) jointly organised a two day International Conference during 7-8 September 2011. The major objective of the International Conference was to critically examine the development scenario, have a comparative understanding of development across the different nations vis-a-vis Diaspora.
Some of the important issues were: to contextualize and conceptualise Diaspora in the changing development scenario, to assess the micro and macro level impact of the Diaspora– national, regional, sectoral and community level, to assess the possible roadmaps to engage Diaspora in the development process, to provide fresh ideas and policy inputs to the governments, development agencies working at national and international level.
The conference brought together about 70 delegates from 27 countries across the globe that includes policy makers, educationist, and development planners at both macro and micro level to engage in a more meaningful dialogue. There are many stake holders and the response was tremendous from Government and from scholars across the globe.
The conference was very meaningful in assessing the size and impact of Diasporas across the globe. It also gave the strategies and experiences of different countries and how they engage their respective Diaspora in the development process. The conference also brought out cultural and identity issues which are directly or indirectly influencing the relation of the Diaspora with their home and host countries. Overall, the conference provided holistic perspective on how to engage Diaspora in a sustainable manner. The conference emphasised that there is a strong need for engaging with the scientific and technological community of overseas Indians. Diaspora engagement in knowledge based innovations has proven to be a success.