The International Center for Refugee and Migration Studies (ICRMS) hosted the annual Research Symposium of the Emerging Scholars Research Award (ESRA) on November 11, 2024, at the Pink Hall, BUITEMS. This prestigious event brought together emerging researchers to present innovative research addressing critical challenges faced by Afghan refugee communities in Balochistan.
The event commenced with a welcome note by the Director of ICRMS, who warmly greeted the attendees and introduced the participants, underscoring the importance of scholarly contributions in addressing the unique issues faced by refugees in the region.
Ms. Nafisa from ICRMS provided an overview of the Emerging Scholars Research Award, highlighting its mission to support and encourage young researchers addressing humanitarian challenges through evidence-based studies. Mr. Kazim from ICRMS moderated the research presentation segment, where each ESRA awardee delivered a presentation on their respective studies, covering a range of significant topics relevant to refugee and host community dynamics.
Research Presentations by ESRA Scholars:
- Bacterial Profiling of Drinking Water at Urban Afghan Refugee Camps in Balochistan: Identification of Potential Pathogenic Bacteria and Sustainable Solutions for Water Purification
Researcher: Ms. Baneen Fatima, a graduate in Biotechnology from BUITEMS (Distinction)
- Understanding Social Cohesion between Refugees and Host Communities in Balochistan
Researcher: Ms. Sarina Tareen, a graduate in International Relations from BUITEMS
- Assessing the Long-Term Viability of NGO-led Female Entrepreneurship in Balochistan: A Case Study of Refugee Women Post-Forced Repatriation of 2023
Researcher: Ms. Rida Ejaz, graduate student of Peace and Global Affairs, University of Notre Dame
- Impact of Outreach Volunteer Programs of UNHCR in Educational Sectors of Refugee Camps
Researcher: Ms. Kiran Sumalani, BS Sociology student at BUITEMS
- Breaking Barriers and Building Opportunities: How can UNHCR Partner NGOs Promote Refugee Livelihoods through Skill-Building Programs in Quetta?
Researcher: Mr. Waseem Ur Rehman, graduate in International Relations from BUITEMS
- Effectiveness of a Comprehensive Computer Training Program: Empowering Refugee Students through Digital and Creative Skills
ICRMS Led Researcher: Ms. Sadia Abdul Ghaffar
Evaluators and Feedback
The symposium was attended by a distinguished panel of evaluators, who provided constructive feedback and guidance to the emerging scholars. The esteemed evaluators included:
Dr. Aminullah – Lecturer in Sociology
Dr. Khadija – Lecturer in Education
Dr. Nadeem Samad – Professor and Head, Department of Pathology, Bolan University
Dr. Ghina Saleem – Assistant Professor in Psychology
Dr. Nasim Khan – Assistant Professor
Dr. Manzoor Ali Barohi – Assistant Professor in Psychology
Dr. Bashir Ahmed – Associate Professor in Sociology
Dr. Ammarah – Assistant Professor in Management Sciences
Dr. Junaid – Senior Social Economist, Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE)
Dr. Zobia Noreen – Associate Professor
The evaluators praised the depth of research conducted by the awardees and commented on their dedication to addressing humanitarian issues. Their insights contributed significantly to refining the research projects and provided valuable academic support for the young scholars. This symposium not only celebrated the hard work of the emerging scholars but also emphasized the importance of academic research in driving sustainable solutions for refugee and host communities in Balochistan.
