Call for Abstracts
International Conference on
"Local Realities & Regional Futures: Transforming Public Administration and Management in South Asia"
Lahore
Welcome to Institute of Administrative Sciences (IAS), University of the Punjab, and the South Asian Network for Public Administration (SANPA)
Institute of Administrative Sciences (IAS) and South Asian Network of Public Administration (SANPA) are pleased to announce our upcoming International Conference on “Local Realities, Regional Futures: Transforming Public Administration and Management in South Asia”. The conference seeks to bring together scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and students from across South Asia and beyond to engage in thoughtful dialogue, research exchange, and knowledge sharing around the critical transformations shaping the region. South Asia stands at a pivotal juncture. As nations in the region confront pressing governance challenges—ranging from the rise of artificial intelligence to public sector reform and evolving regional dynamics—there is a growing need for collaborative approaches that transcend borders. This conference provides a platform to critically explore these transformations and propose innovative pathways for the future of governance in South Asia.
Objectives
- To explore theoretical and practical dimensions of indigenizing public administration in South Asia by grounding governance practices in local contexts, cultures, and knowledge systems.
- To examine emerging challenges and innovations in digital transformation, AI, and crisis governance for more resilient and inclusive public service delivery.
- To foster dialogue on gender, equity, and inclusion in public administration across South Asia, with a focus on marginalized and underrepresented groups.
- To investigate the role of decentralization and local governance in strengthening democratic accountability and participatory governance.
- To identify and discuss innovative and contextually appropriate governance models, strategies, and reforms that reflect indigenous realities and respond to contemporary issues
- To strengthen the South Asian research community by promoting the exchange of ideas, joint research initiatives, and institutional partnerships across countries
Outcomes
- A set of context-sensitive policy recommendations and frameworks to guide locally grounded public administration reforms in South Asia.
- Enhanced regional academic and practitioner networks, including potential partnerships between universities, think tanks, and civil society organizations.
- A published volume or conference proceedings featuring selected peer-reviewed papers that contribute to the discourse on indigenization and transformation of governance in South Asia.
- A regional research agenda under SANPA promotes epistemic diversity, digital inclusion, and innovative governance models.
- Increased visibility and legitimacy of South Asian perspectives in global public administration discourse, advocating for epistemic diversity and locally grounded solutions.
Subthemes for Paper Submission
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and E-Governance for Public Services
AI-driven public services, ethical frameworks, smart cities, transparency and inclusivity.
Civil Service Reforms
Merit-based recruitment, capacity building, digitalization, accountability and anti-corruption.
South Asian Relations in a Changing Landscape
Regional cooperation, trade, security, cultural exchange and climate impacts.
Indigenizing Governance: Theory, Practice, and Pedagogy
Postcolonial critiques, culturally grounded policies, indigenous practices and pedagogy.
Decentralization and Local Governance in South Asia
Comparative decentralization, community innovations and democratic deepening.
Gender, Equity, and Inclusive Public Administration
Gender mainstreaming, social justice, marginalized groups’ participation.
Crisis Governance and Public Administration Resilience
Adaptive governance, disaster management, institutional learning and emergency response.
Islamic Public Administration
Normative frameworks, ethics, leadership and integration in modern governance.
Global Refugee and Migration Governance: Mechanisms, Crises, and Challenges
Regional responses, humanitarian governance, citizenship and rights-based policies.
Climate Governance and Environmental Resilience in South Asia
Adaptation, institutional resilience, climate justice and regional cooperation.
Sectoral Governance and Institutional Reforms in South Asia
Healthcare, education, water, energy, transport reforms and public-private partnerships.
Contemporary Management Practices and Organizational Innovation
Leadership, innovation, digital transformation, ethics and cross-cultural management.
Conference Registration
| Rs. 8000 National Participants / Faculty / Professionals | Rs. 8000 |
| Rs. 5000 For Students | Rs. 5000 |
| Rs. 2000 For IAS Students | Rs. 2000 |
| $ 125 International Faculty / Practitioners | $ 125 |
| $ 100 International Students | $ 100 |
| $ 100 Early Bird - Faculty / Practitioners / Students (Deadline 15.09.2025) | $ 100 |
| $ 65 Online participation / presentation at the conference | $ 65 |
Please note that registration for the conference closes on 15th October 2025. The registration fee includes meals during the conference and conference materials/publications for in-person registered participants. Payment details will be shared once registrations open on 15th August, 2025.
Dates
Key Dates & Deadlines
-
Abstract Submission Deadline
20th July, 2025 -
Abstract Acceptance Notification
10th August, 2025 -
Conference Registration
15th August - 15th October, 2025 -
Submission of Full Paper
15th October, 2025
Highlights of International Conference 2018
Team
Organizing Team
Prof. Dr Muhammad Ali (S.I & T.I)
Vice ChancellorUniversity of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Prof. Dr. Kashif Rathore
DirectorInstitute of Administrative Sciences
University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
Prof. Akhlaque Haque
President, South Asian Network for Public Administration (SANPA)& ProfessorDepartment of Political Science and Public Administration
University of Alabama at Birmingham, US
Prof. Dr. Yaamina Salman
Secretary, Academic Affairs, South Asian Network for Public Administration & ProfessorInstitute of Administrative Sciences
University of the Punjab
Dr. Amani Moazzam
Assistant ProfessorInstitute of Adminstrative Sciences
University of the Punjab
Located at the crossroads of history and modernity, Lahore—Pakistan’s cultural capital—offers a rich and immersive experience for our international conference participants. From the grandeur of Mughal landmarks such as the Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort to the vibrant energy of the Walled City and traditional bazaars, Lahore presents a compelling tapestry of heritage and hospitality. Participants will enjoy world-renowned cuisine, welcoming locals, and convenient access to luxury accommodations and modern facilities. As the host city for the 2025 International Conference on ‘Transforming South Asia: Indigenizing Public Administration Practices,’ Lahore provides not only a stimulating academic environment but also a unique cultural journey into the heart of South Asia.
