Experts Urge Fostering Research Culture and Critical Thinking to Meet Global Challenges

ISLAMABAD - Aug. 15, 2023 - PRLog -- Experts unveil pathways to combat militancy and populism through academic excellence, critical thinking, and building a sustainable future for all. The experts expressed these views in a webinar organized by The Global Strategic Institute for Sustainable Development (GSISD) on 'Art of Knowing: From Critical Thinking to the Science of Research – Exploring Sustainable Development Dynamics by Conceptualizing Research Paradigms Focusing on Ontology, Epistemology, Axiology, Methodology.' This weekly webinar series aims to foster deeper understanding of research  and critical thinking, and their roles in the realm of sustainable development, while addressing fundamental questions related to ontology, epistemology, and methodology.
Webinar's focused on knowledge creation and sustainable development, scrutinizing  underlying philosophical dimensions. Dr. Muhammad Shakeel Ahmad, Chief Executive- GSISD, delivered a  keynote address, delving into evolution of knowledge throughout history and its connection with socio-political dynamics. Dr. Ahmad emphasized the need to understand the process of knowledge creation within different historical contexts and underscored its relevance to contemporary sustainable development challenges. 'The process of research in sustainable development is inherently linked with various research paradigms,' Dr. Shakeel remarked. He highlighted  imperative of fostering critical thinking and a research culture to counteract populism and militancy on a global scale. The exploration of fundamental questions such as 'Do You Live In Your Head Or Are You Tuned In To Your Environment?' and 'Why Do You Think The Way You Do?' holds the key to unlocking the potential for positive change. The webinar delved into profound ontological and epistemological questions, probing into the very nature of existence and modes of being. Dr. Shakeel advocated for the decolonization of minds and knowledge by initiating a dialogue centered on critical thinking and research. He stressed that liberating minds through an education system rooted in critical thinking and research is pivotal to countering dogmatism and fostering holistic growth.
Prof. Nader Jan, General Secretary of GSISD, inaugurated the session, underscoring the importance of dialogue and the topic's significance. Mr. Amir Habib, from Azad Jammu and Kashmir University, elucidated the philosophical foundations of research. Research fellows from GSISD offered diverse insights, delving into the ontological and epistemological facets of their research pursuits. Dr. Amir Zia, Director of Research, facilitated the session, encouraging vibrant discussions.
Laiba Bashir, a research fellow at GSISD, highlighted the intriguing relationship between language and ontology, delving into various patterns of symbolism. The session resonated with participants, fostering a deeper understanding of interplay between critical thinking, research, and sustainable development dynamics. The GSISD's weekly webinar series continues to pave the way for meaningful discourse on the intricacies of knowledge production, critical thinking, and their integral role in sustainable development. For more see www.gsisd.org