In a landmark moment for the social sciences in India, the International Sociological Association (ISA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FLAME University, marking a new chapter in global academic collaboration and advanced sociological research. The agreement was formalised during the 6th Council of National Associations Conference, hosted by FLAME University—an event that also made history as the first ISA conference of its kind to be held in India.
The conference brought together sociologists, researchers, and academic leaders from 40 countries, transforming the FLAME University campus into a vibrant global forum for dialogue, debate, and collaboration. Supported by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the gathering reflected India’s growing role as a hub for international academic engagement in the social sciences.
A Historic First for India
Founded in 1949 under UNESCO, the International Sociological Association has long served as a global platform for advancing sociological research, fostering scholarly exchange, and strengthening international academic networks. Hosting the Council of National Associations Conference in India for the first time signalled a recognition of the country’s expanding contribution to sociological thought and research.
For FLAME University, hosting the conference was more than an institutional milestone—it was a statement of intent. By welcoming global scholars to its campus, the university positioned itself as a space where interdisciplinary thinking, global perspectives, and innovative research intersect.
Theme Focus: Building Resilient Sociologies
The conference revolved around the timely and thought-provoking theme “Building Resilient Sociologies: Voices, Visions, and Ventures.” Discussions explored how sociology as a discipline must respond to rapid political, economic, social, and technological changes reshaping societies worldwide.
Participants examined how sociological frameworks can adapt to challenges such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, shifting labour markets, climate uncertainty, and evolving social identities. The emphasis on resilience highlighted the need for sociology not just to analyse change, but to actively engage with it and help societies navigate uncertainty.
MoU: Laying the Groundwork for Future Collaboration
A key highlight of the event was the signing of the MoU between ISA and FLAME University. The agreement aims to facilitate long-term academic partnerships, collaborative research programmes, conferences, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Through this collaboration, FLAME University is expected to play a more active role in global sociological networks, while ISA gains a strong institutional partner in South Asia. The MoU reflects a shared commitment to promoting interdisciplinary research, nurturing young scholars, and strengthening international academic exchange.
Global Voices, Shared Challenges
The conference programme featured a rich mix of paper presentations, panel discussions, and workshops. Delegates discussed how national sociological associations across different regions are responding to contemporary challenges—from political polarisation and social inequality to digital surveillance and AI-driven transformations.
These sessions encouraged participants to compare experiences across countries, identify shared concerns, and explore collective strategies. The emphasis on cross-cultural dialogue underscored sociology’s role as a bridge between societies, offering insights that transcend borders.
Leadership Perspectives on Academic Exchange
FLAME University’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Dishan Kamdar, highlighted the importance of hosting such a global gathering. He described the conference as a powerful reminder of the value of international scholarly dialogue in addressing complex contemporary issues. According to him, FLAME University remains deeply committed to fostering academic exchange and interdisciplinary engagement, values that align closely with the goals of the ISA.
From the ISA’s perspective, the significance of the event was equally profound. Prof Bandana Purkayastha, Vice President of the ISA Council of National Associations, noted that this was the first time the conference had been held in India and praised the enthusiasm and expertise shared by national association leaders. She emphasised that such conferences strengthen truly open global scholarly exchanges and reinforce the resilience of sociological communities worldwide.
Digital Technologies and AI in Sociological Discourse
One of the most compelling aspects of the conference was its focus on digital technologies and artificial intelligence. Scholars engaged in critical discussions on how AI and digital platforms are reshaping social relations, work, governance, and everyday life.
These conversations acknowledged that technology is no longer a peripheral topic in sociology—it is central to understanding contemporary societies. By integrating discussions on AI and digital transformation, the conference demonstrated how sociology continues to evolve alongside technological change.
Prof Mayurakshi Chaudhuri, Head of the Department of Social Sciences at FLAME University and Chair of the Local Organising Committee, described the conference as both timely and essential. She highlighted how the event created space for scholars to reflect on resilience while also addressing the unavoidable realities of digital life and technological influence.
Positioning FLAME University on the Global Academic Map
By hosting the conference and signing the MoU with ISA, FLAME University has strengthened its position as a hub for global sociological dialogue. The event showcased the university’s capacity to facilitate international collaboration, host large-scale academic events, and contribute meaningfully to global research conversations.
More importantly, it demonstrated how Indian institutions can play a leading role in shaping global academic agendas—particularly in fields that examine society, culture, and human behaviour.
Looking Ahead
The ISA–FLAME University partnership opens new possibilities for collaborative research, student and faculty exchanges, and joint academic initiatives. As sociology grapples with rapid global change, such partnerships will be crucial in ensuring that research remains inclusive, globally informed, and socially relevant.
The conference and MoU together signal a future where Indian academia is not just participating in global conversations—but helping to lead them.
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