On September 26, 2024, Professor Rahat Munir, Head of Accounting and Corporate Governance at Macquarie University, delivered an insightful talk on "Creating Effective Learning and Teaching Environments" at the Institute of Business Management (IoBM). At the sidelines of the talk, IoBM and Macquarie University signed a memorandum of understanding. The MoU aims to foster joint initiatives in teaching, research, and other activities, including the exchange of academic materials, joint seminars, guest lectureships, study tours, and professional development programs. The signatories were Mr. Talib S. Karim, President of IoBM, and Professor Rahat Munir.
This talk and the MoU were facilitated and organized by the Office of International Cooperation, IoBM. Ms. Juveria Baig, Head of the Office, was the Master of Ceremonies. The event was attended by Dr. Muhammad Kashif, Dean of the College of Business Management (CBM); Dr. Nadia Ayub, Dean of the College of Economics and Social Development (CESD); Dr. Muhammad Abbas, Dean of the College of Computer Science and Information Systems (CCSIS); HoDs, faculty and management.
During his talk, Professor Rahat Munir emphasized three core principles—effectiveness, learning, and teaching—as essential pillars for both students and faculty. He delved into the transformative effects of digitalization, noting how technological advancements have revolutionized various sectors, particularly banking, where physical branches are becoming obsolete in places like Australia and the West. He also highlighted the growing role of AI and automation in industries such as manufacturing, where machines now dominate factories and assembly lines, fundamentally reshaping the nature of work and the global workforce.
When referring to Generation Z, Professor Munir noted that today's students are constantly connected, and confident, yet prone to boredom. He predicted that the traditional three to four-hour class format will soon become outdated, as students' attention spans shrink. Citing research, he observed that younger generations prefer shorter, more engaging content, such as three-minute videos over ten-minute ones. He emphasized that research is about discovery, while teaching is about delivery and facilitation, urging faculty to turn classrooms into spaces of active engagement rather than passive lecture delivery.
Professor Munir encouraged faculty members to actively involve students in the learning process, emphasizing that modern employers seek graduates who are productive, adaptable, and possess strong interpersonal skills. He advocated for a shift toward active learning, where demonstrations and interactive activities take center stage in the classroom. Moreover, he underscored the importance of fostering essential skills like communication, teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, ethics, sustainability, and technological competence. He concluded by stressing that academic institutions should prioritize a skills-based approach over a purely knowledge-based one. He urged educators to integrate research into their teaching practices and engage students in ways that make learning dynamic, practical, and relevant.
In his vote of thanks, Mr. Talib Karim reflected on his 2017 visit to Macquarie University, Sydney, expressing admiration for its vibrant campus environment. He emphasized that collaboration is crucial for driving progress. He extended his gratitude to Professor Rahat Munir for inviting the IoBM faculty to participate in a faculty exchange program at Macquarie University. Mr. Talib Karim also proposed launching a faculty development initiative in partnership with Macquarie University, which would enhance the professional growth of educators. He expressed optimism about the potential for PhD graduates from IoBM to pursue postdoctoral opportunities, fostering advanced research and academic exchange between the two institutions.
Profile of Professor Rahat Munir: He is a specialist in forensic accounting and financial integrity, with extensive expertise in financial crime investigations. He currently serves as the Chairperson for the Chairs of Accounting and Finance (CAFF) across all universities in Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, he is a member of the Education Board of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, where his primary responsibility is overseeing the global implementation of the International Education Standards (IESs) set by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). Prof. Rahat is internationally renowned for curriculum development, pioneering innovative learning and teaching (L&T) practices, and accreditation. Professor Munir through his leadership maintained strong and ongoing relationships with external stakeholders. He has written over 100 peer-reviewed journal articles, books, book chapters, monographs, and commissioned reports, and over 50 publications for professional and lay audiences.
Professor Rahat Munir's talk on "Creating Effective Learning and Teaching Environments" and the signing of an MoU between IoBM and Macquarie University align with SDG 4: Quality Education. The initiatives focused on enhancing teaching, research, and professional development support the goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. Additionally, the emphasis is on fostering essential skills, active learning, and technological competence by preparing students with the skills needed for the evolving global workforce.