The International Multi-Disciplinary Conference 2024 (IMDC 2024) brought together leading minds from across the globe to discuss innovative solutions for fostering knowledge sharing and enhancing competitiveness in production-enabled development. Held at the Mulungushi Conference Center, this year’s event was themed “Fostering Knowledge Sharing and Innovation Competitiveness for Production-Enabled Development” and featured participants from 20 countries, including Zambia, Russia, the UK, USA, South Africa, and China.

Recognized as Zambia’s foremost academic forum, IMDC 2024 was organized by the Zambia Research and Development Centre, led by Dr. Richard Silumbe, and the Information and Communications University (ICU), represented by Maybe Kalumba. The conference was graced by Zambia’s Minister of Education, Hon. Douglas Syakalima, and included over 100 speakers, academics, and policymakers.

“This conference is a testament to our collective commitment to leveraging knowledge and innovation for sustainable development,” remarked Hon. Douglas Syakalima during the opening ceremony.

Prominent among the distinguished attendees was Inga Koryagina, Associate Professor at Plekhanov Russian University of Economics and a seasoned International Development expert for the UNDP. In her keynote address, Koryagina emphasized the importance of international collaboration in achieving sustainable development, particularly within the BRICS+ framework

A Platform for Global Collaboration

IMDC 2024 hosted a range of panel discussions, paper presentations, and high-level interactions. Topics spanned business and applied management sciences, education, ecology, urban management, and digital innovation. Among the notable sessions was the “Business and Applied Management Sciences (BAMS) Paper Presentations,” which showcased groundbreaking research from students and professionals.

Participants also explored strategies for advancing partnerships through initiatives like BRICS+, which emphasizes collaboration among emerging economies. “Through platforms like BRICS+, we have the opportunity to share best practices and strengthen economic and cultural ties,” noted one of the panelists.

Regional and Global Engagement

A highlight of the event was the participation of Boemo Sekgoma, Secretary General of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, who underscored the importance of regional cooperation. “Events like IMDC foster dialogue that is essential for Africa’s role in addressing global challenges,” she said during a high-level media interaction.

Representatives from countries such as India, Japan, and Botswana echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for global knowledge exchange to tackle pressing issues, from climate change to digital transformation.

Strengthening Partnerships and Education

The conference also facilitated bilateral meetings aimed at strengthening academic ties. Discussions included potential agreements between international universities, such as Plekhanov Russian University of Economics and Zambia’s Mulungushi University, to promote student exchanges and collaborative research.

“Academic cooperation is a vital tool for building a future that thrives on innovation and inclusivity,” said one of the organizers.

Professor Koryagina chaired the “Business and Applied Management Sciences (BAMS) Paper Presentations” session, where young researchers showcased innovative solutions in applied management. “It’s inspiring to see the next generation of thinkers presenting practical ideas to tackle real-world challenges,” she said, encouraging students to prioritize sustainability in their work.

Recognition of Excellence

In a show of support for academic achievements, the event concluded with a graduation ceremony at ICU, where top-performing students were recognized for their contributions to research and innovation.

Looking Ahead

IMDC 2024 underscored the importance of global collaboration in fostering sustainable development. The conference served as a bridge between continents, offering a platform for shared learning, cultural exchange, and economic partnerships.

As one participant aptly summarized, “This is not just a conference—it’s a movement towards a more interconnected and innovative world.”

Obaidur Chowdhury

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