On 21 September 2024, The International Relations Committee at Jaipuria Institute of Management, Lucknow, organized “Inter-Continental Conclave - Changing Contours of Geopolitics: Challenges and Opportunities for India”.

The Chief Guest of the event was Madam Sibongiseni Dlamini (High Commissioner: City of Johannesburg, South Africa) Dr. Arpita Mukherjee (Professor: Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations - ICRIER), Dr. Anshu Joshi (Faculty: School of International Studies, JNU).

The event was graced by the presence of Dr. Kavita Pathak (Director, Jaipuria Institute of Management, Lucknow). The Intercontinental Conclave was spearheaded by Dr. Kajal Srivastava (Chairperson-International Relations Committee) and coordinated by Dr. Ajay Jha (Faculty Coordinator-International Relations Committee) along with Prof. Nishtha Malik (Co-Chairperson-International Relations Committee) and Dr. Ashutosh Kumar Srivastava (Member: International Relations Committee), under the guidance of Dr. Pallavi Srivastava (Associate Dean: Pan Campus - International Relations Committee), with Ms. Kirty Jagwani as the IRC Student Coordinator.

The event began with a warm welcome extended to the guests by Dr. Ajay Jha, followed by the presentation of Green Certificates to the esteemed guests.

The event proceeded with Dr. Kavita Pathak, who then set the tone for the day’s discussions, emphasizing the importance of understanding geopolitics for students of business. She highlighted that, in today’s interconnected world, global events directly influence businesses and economies, and only by understanding these dynamics can students respond to global challenges and opportunities, ultimately becoming better managers.

The keynote speaker, Madam Sibongiseni Dlamini (High Commissioner: Johannesburg, South Africa), initiated the discussion by stressing the significance of the BRICS nations as a powerful economic bloc. She highlighted their role in fostering economic growth and reforming global financial institutions, particularly following the 2008 global economic crisis. She also emphasized the strong partnership between India and South Africa within BRICS, underscoring the bloc’s potential to drive sustainable growth and address rising geopolitical tensions, such as those between the USA and China.

She discussed how BRICS nations, especially India and South Africa, are key players in global geopolitics, with their economies gaining prominence over the West. However, challenges like political instability, climate change, and reliance on China for technology investments in Africa must be addressed. India’s potential to assist African nations in sectors like healthcare, logistics, and agriculture was highlighted, as well as the need for strong diplomatic relations to harness BRICS's full potential.

Further, Dr. Arpita Mukherjee addressed the audience by providing insights into India's G20 presidency and the role of trade agreements in strengthening India's position in the global economy. She further discussed global trade dynamics post-COVID-19, noting the pandemic’s impact on supply chains and international trade. She emphasized China’s growing influence and India’s withdrawal from the RCEP trade agreement, which has significant geopolitical and economic implications. She also touched upon the ongoing USA-China trade war, highlighting its influence on global trade.

She praised India’s steady economic growth, its ability to recover from the pandemic, and its strategic policies like restricting China’s foreign direct investment amid ongoing disputes. She also underscored India’s growing influence as the fifth-largest economy and its active participation in global trade, while also addressing challenges like Cyber Attacks and Ocean Governance.

The event moved further with the address of Dr. Anshu Joshi who focused on the changing contours of global politics. She offered a comprehensive view of the dynamic geopolitical landscape, tracing power shifts from colonialism to the post-Cold War era. She stressed that economic power, ideologies, and technological advancements are now key factors shaping geopolitics. Using the Russia-Ukraine war as an example, she demonstrated how regional conflicts can have global ramifications. Further, she also emphasized the importance of understanding these complexities to seize opportunities and mitigate challenges.

The Conclave moved with the announcement of the winners for the competitions conducted earlier in the day, aimed at enhancing the global understanding and knowledge of the students.

The "Worldly Wisdom Challenge" quiz tested participants' knowledge of global cultures, sparking curiosity and learning.

The "Express It Digitally: International Affairs Poster Challenge" encouraged students to design digital posters on global issues, blending creativity with international engagement. It was judged by Dr. Kajal Srivastava (Chairperson- International Relations Committee)

Further, “Cultural Runway" showcased traditional attire from various nations, with participants explaining the cultural significance of their outfits, judged by Dr. Pallavi Srivastava, Dr. Kajal Srivastava, and Dr. Nishta Malik.

Lastly, "Slogan Shenanigans" tested teams' non-verbal communication skills, as they raced to guess global brand slogans and music lines, combining fun with quick thinking. Together, these events enriched participants with knowledge, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for global cultures. It was well judged By: Mr. Devansh Saxena (Senior Member: International Relations Committee).

The event concluded with the presentation of mementos to the distinguished guests, Dr. Arpita Mukherjee, and Dr. Anshu Joshi, by the entire faculty team of the International Relations Committee, as a gesture of appreciation for their invaluable contributions.

The conclave was officially concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Kirty Jagwani (Student Coordinator: International Relations Committee). She expressed gratitude to the esteemed guests, faculty, and participants, acknowledging the collaborative efforts that contributed to the success of the conclave.

The winners of the events are as follows:

Worldly Wisdom Challenge

1st Position – Ms. Tanya Singh

2nd Position – Mr. Aditya Sharma

3rd Position – Mr. Yash Deep

Express It Digitally: International Affairs Poster Challenge

1st Position – Ms. Sriparna Ghosh

2nd Position – Ms. Kamya Saran

3rd Position– Mr. Yatindra Narayan Jha

Cultural Runway

1st Position: Ms. Sriparna Ghosh & Ms. Surbhi Kumari

2nd Position: Ms. Ananya Seth & Ms. Omprava Mandal

Slogan Shenanigans

1st Position: Ms. Neha Jha & Mr. Dhruv Tyagi

2nd Position: Ms. Tanya Singh & Ms. Ridhi Gandhi

The Inter-Continental Conclave was a remarkable platform for students to gain a deeper understanding of global geopolitics and its relevance to business, fostering greater awareness and encouraging more informed perspectives on international relations.

Team Media Relations Committee for the Workshop coverage:

Under the guidance of Faculty Coordinator: Dr. Reeti Agarwal

Writer: Mr. Shubham Kumar Pandey

Photographer: Mr. Syed Amaan Ali, Ms. Astha Gupta, Ms. Mahee Srivastava, Mr. Mohd. Amir

Graphic Designer: Mr. Syed Amaan Ali