The IASIA 2023 Conference, set to take place from July 31 to August 4, has revealed the comprehensive lineup of plenary sessions that will address key topics related to main conference theme of "Building Better Futures of Governance towardsAchieving the SDGs in a VUCA World". The event will bring together distinguished scholars, practitioners, and PhD students in public governance from around the globe.

The opening ceremony, chaired by Dr. Alex B. Brillantes Jr., Secretary General of the Eastern Regional Organization for Public Administration (EROPA), will serve as an official platform for the leadership and partners of the event to communicate the conference's theme and significance. The Rapporteurs will provide an introductory report, highlighting the key features and rationale behind the IASIA 2023 Conference.

One of the plenary sessions, chaired by Dr. Lizan E. Perante-Calina from the Development Academy of the Philippines, will focus on implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) world. Esteemed keynote speakers will delve into crucial questions surrounding global governance adaptation, sustainability, and the UN SDGs. 

Dr. Kristoffer B. Berse, from the National College of Public Administration and Governance, will chair a plenary session dedicated to discussing local resilience in the VUCA world. The session will examine the role of local authorities in fostering citizen engagement, resilience, and sustainability amidst the challenges posed by a VUCA environment.

Another plenary session, chaired by Dr. Ederson DT Tapia of the University of Makati, will address the critical role of higher education institutions in a VUCA world. Speakers will explore how these institutions can identify and potentially address the VUCA effects that impact the sustainability components of economics, ecology, politics, public administration, and culture. Redesigning teaching and learning environments and redefining programs will be key to preparing future civil servants for the multi-crises challenges of the modern world.

The conference will also feature a plenary session on local government innovations in a VUCA world. Experts will discuss how local governments can transform their operations to be more responsive, flexible, and innovative. The session will explore strategies for reconnecting with citizens, organizing effectively in a VUCA world, and ensuring the sustainable delivery of services at the local level.

Digital transformation in public administration will be the focus of another plenary session chaired by Dr. Erwin Alampay from the National College of Public Administration and Governance. Panelists will address the challenges and opportunities brought about by accelerated digitalization, emphasizing the need to bridge the digital divide, enhance the quality of digital services, and develop skills for digital/remote work.

Delving into the futures of governance, the conference will host a plenary session chaired by Dr. Gary G. Ador Dionisio from the School of Diplomacy and Governance at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. Experts will discuss the next developments in governance and the improvement of government capacities to cope with uncertainty in a VUCA context.

The IASIA 2023 Conference will conclude with an awarding, reporting, and closing ceremony. The ceremony will feature prestigious lectures from the recipients of the OP Dwivedi Award, Donald C. Stone Award, and Pierre DeCelles Award. Reports from IASIA Working Groups, presented by the chairs or co-chairs, and the Team of Rapporteurs' presentation will provide valuable insights into the conference's outcomes. The closing remarks will express gratitude to the parties, partners, and individuals involved while inviting participants and members to upcoming events.

The IASIA 2023 Conference promises to be a remarkable platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and envisioning the future of public administration amidst a VUCA world. Participants from academia, government institutions, and international organizations are eagerly anticipated to contribute to these critical discussions.

For more information about the preliminary program, please visit https://iasia-conference2023.org/news/iasia-2023-conference-announces-preliminary-program-and-distinguished-keynote-speakers/