IoBM and the University of Gwadar (UG) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on July 22, 2023. The signatories were Dr. Ather Akhlaq, Director of ORIC at IoBM, and Muhammad Irshad Buledi, Director of ORIC at UG. This agreement aims to foster collaboration in faculty development and research in business management and social sciences.
While speaking at the occasion, Dr. Ather emphasized the importance of faculty exchange programs and joint capacity-building activities to prepare the regional population for the CPEC activities.
Mr. Irshad expressed confidence that this MoU would promote entrepreneurship through various programs of mutual interest, particularly in CPEC-related projects. Furthermore, the ORIC team members discussed UG's future action plan and roadmap with Prof. Dr. Muhammad Shujaat Mubarik, Dean CBM, IoBM, thereby highlighting research areas for the economic development of Balochistan.
The collaboration between IoBM and the University of Gwadar, as outlined in the MoU, holds significant potential for advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, this partnership can contribute to SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting faculty development and research, which are crucial for enhancing educational outcomes in both institutions. The focus on entrepreneurship and regional economic development aligns with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), particularly in preparing the local population for CPEC-related activities. Moreover, fostering regional cooperation and capacity building, as emphasized by both IoBM and UG, also supports SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), highlighting the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable development goals.