SZABIST University Islamabad proudly hosted a Research Symposium titled “Aligning Psychological Research with UN-SDGs” , led by Dr. Arooj Mujeeb, Faculty of Social Sciences. The symposium highlighted impactful research conducted by MS Clinical Psychology students, demonstrating strong alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The event was honored by the presence of Dr. Muhammad Waqas Saleem, Executive Director Lok Virsa and former Assistant Professor at Quaid-i-Azam University, as the Guest of Honor. His valuable insights enriched academic discussions and emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary and socially responsive research.

A comprehensive research portfolio was presented, featuring 19 psychology research projects employing mixed-method and quantitative approaches. The research addressed Pakistan-specific challenges while maintaining strong alignment with national and global SDGs. Key research domains included mental health and psychological well-being (SDG 3), gender equity and empowerment (SDG 5), education and professional competency (SDG 4), digital media and society (SDG 3), peace, justice, and civic engagement (SDG 16), and climate action through environmental psychology (SDG 13).

The sequence of events included a detailed briefing of research projects to the Guest of Honor and Faculty of Social Sciences by Dr. Arooj Mujeeb, followed by a Strategic Planning Meeting hosted by the Head of the Department of Social Sciences to explore long-term research collaboration. The symposium concluded with a visit to student research displays, showcasing scholarly work and applied research outcomes.

The symposium emphasized emotionally, cognitively, and socially integrated research with policy-relevant, training-focused, and intervention-oriented outcomes tailored to Pakistan’s socio-cultural context. This initiative reflects SZABIST Islamabad’s continued commitment to research excellence, interdisciplinary engagement, and meaningful societal impact.