The Department of Sociology organised a seminar on Urban Sociology as part of the MPhil course, bringing together academia, researchers and urban practitioners to examine the pressing challenges facing Pakistan’s cities. Discussions focused on faith and belonging in urban spaces, how development priorities might be redefined, and pathways to more sustainable urban futures.
Speakers included Mr. Idrees Burhan, CEO and founder of Enabling Ways Consultants Pvt Ltd, who spoke on practical planning challenges and community engagement; Ms. Nabeela Irum, sociologist and visiting faculty at Fatima Jinnah Women University, who reflected on social belonging and urban faith landscapes; and Dr. Anita M. Weiss, professor emerita at the University of Oregon, who contributed international perspectives on inclusive city planning. The seminar created space for rigorous exchange grounded in the Urban Sociology curriculum.
Participants explored how research and policy can address inequalities in urban services, the role of faith communities in shaping neighbourhood identities, and how development agendas can better prioritise social inclusion and environmental sustainability. The conversation linked academic insight with practitioner experience to identify realistic steps for Pakistani cities aiming for resilient growth.
Organisers emphasised the seminar’s contribution to Sustainable Development Goal aims, particularly SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities and SDG 16 on inclusive institutions and justice. By connecting MPhil students with leading voices in the field, the event sought to strengthen local research capacity and encourage ongoing academic dialogue on Urban Sociology and urban policy in Pakistan.
