Leh, May 12 : The University of Ladakh on Monday organised a series of ICSSR-NWRC sponsored national conferences at its Leh campus in hybrid mode, bringing together academicians, policymakers, researchers and students to deliberate on issues related to global sustainability, conflict studies, disability inclusion and livelihood challenges in the Trans-Himalayan region.
The conferences were jointly organised by the Department of International Conflict Studies, the Department of Social Work in Disability Studies and Action, and the Department of Economics. The sessions focused on themes including multilateralism and global sustainability, empowerment of persons with disabilities in UT Ladakh, and livelihood adaptation strategies in the Trans-Himalayan region.
Chief Guest Bhanu Prabha underlined the importance of focused academic research for Ladakh, describing the Union Territory as environmentally sensitive and strategically important. She called for greater academic engagement with issues concerning ecology, local communities and conflict dynamics, while emphasising the role of research in policy formulation and sustainable development.
Delivering the special address, Upasana Joshi stressed the need for evidence-based and region-specific research to address challenges related to environmental sustainability, governance and social justice. She encouraged scholars to pursue indigenous and locally relevant solutions for Himalayan regions such as Ladakh.
Vice Chancellor Saket Kushawa reflected on the role of universities in shaping discourse on global conflicts, cooperation and sustainability, particularly amid contemporary geopolitical and environmental challenges.
Earlier, Dr. Yangchan Dolma, Dean Academic Affairs, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the significance of academic dialogue in addressing contemporary global and regional concerns. The inaugural session was moderated by Ms. Zerish Firdous, Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Science.
The event was attended by Registrar Mr. Nawang Tundup, principals of colleges, deans, faculty members and students from various departments of the University. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Jigmat Dachen, Dean Colleges, followed by the National Anthem.
