International Workshop on Financial Literacy and Sustainability
On Tuesday, December 17th, 2024, the Departments of Accounting, and Banking and Finance departments successfully hosted an International Workshop titled “Financial Literacy and Sustainability.” The event brought together faculty, students, and industry professional fields to discuss the intersection of financial literacy, environmental sustainability, and accounting theory. The event attracted participants from around the globe, and featured two distinguished presenters, Dr. Firdous Ahmad Malik and Dr. Haider Aref.
Dr. Firdous Ahmad Malik, Assistant Professor of Economics in the Department of Business Administration at the University of People, USA, kicked off the session with his thought-provoking presentation on “Financial Literacy and Environmental Sustainability in the Global South: Navigating Complex Challenges and Promoting Equitable Solutions.” In his talk, Dr. Malik explored the intricate challenges faced by the Global South in achieving financial literacy while also addressing environmental sustainability. His presentation highlighted the urgent need for financial solutions that can help in achieving the UN sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Following Dr. Malik’s session, Dr. Haider Aref, a faculty member from the Faculty of Law, Political Science, and Management at Soran University, presented on “The Role of Sustainability in Shaping Concepts of Accounting Theory.” Dr. Aref provided a comprehensive overview of how sustainability principles are increasingly influencing the development of accounting theory. He examined how sustainability considerations are reshaping financial reporting, and how organizations in Kurdistan can integrate environmental and social factors into their decision-making processes for long-term success.
The workshop proved to be a valuable platform for exchanging ideas on the role of financial literacy in fostering environmental sustainability and how accounting practices are evolving to meet global challenges. Participants engaged in stimulating discussions, raising questions, and sharing insights on how these topics can be better integrated into academic curricula and real-world practices.
The presentation was followed by an interactive Q&A session, where students and faculty had the opportunity to delve deeper into issues such as Sustainable Accounting Standards, financial literacy with sustainability, overcoming challenges in stakeholder management, and real-world examples of successful governance models. The lively discussion underscored the relevance of the topic in today’s business landscape.
After the discussions, Dr. Abubakar Karaye, the head of the Accounting, Banking & Finance Department of Tishk International University presented certificates to Dr. Malik’s session and Dr. Haider Aref followed by a vote of thanks and closing remarks.
The Departments of Accounting, Banking and Finance extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Firdous Ahmad Malik and Dr. Haider Aref for their invaluable contribution and to all participants for their active engagement. The Departments also thank the organizing committee for such a wonderful workshop, your hard work is appreciated.
