FLAME University, in collaboration with the International Sociological Association (ISA), recently concluded the 6th ISA Council of National Associations Conference, a global gathering featuring delegates from sociological associations across 40 countries. This edition marked the first time the conference was hosted in India, and was made possible with valuable support received from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. The ISA, founded under the auspices of UNESCO in 1949, is a global association dedicated to advancing sociological research and scholarly exchange.
Anchored in the theme “Building Resilient Sociologies: Voices, Visions, and Ventures,” the conference brought together scholars to reflect on how the discipline can remain responsive amid political, economic, social, and technological transformations. The event also marked a milestone for FLAME University’s international engagement with the signing of a FLAME–ISA Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) related to the organisation of the conference and future possibilities for academic exchange.
Throughout the meeting, participants discussed how national sociological associations are addressing contemporary challenges; which emerging voices and perspectives are shaping new directions in the field; and how scholarly communities can strengthen international dialogue and collaboration.
Through paper presentations, panel discussions, and workshops, delegates from 40 countries explored these themes and exchanged perspectives on the future of the discipline. The gathering created a dynamic intellectual environment marked by open debate, cross-cultural exchange, and a shared interest in understanding global sociological developments.
Speaking on the significance of the conference, Prof. Dishan Kamdar, Vice-Chancellor, FLAME University, said, “Welcoming colleagues from around the world to FLAME University has been an honour. This conference highlighted the value of international scholarly dialogue in addressing contemporary issues. At FLAME, we remain committed to fostering academic exchange and interdisciplinary engagement.”
Prof. Bandana Purkayastha, Vice President of the ISA Council of National Associations, added, “This is the first time that the International Sociological Association has held a conference in India. The leaders of the national associations brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise that they were eager to share with their peers and local sociologists. Our commitment to truly open global scholarly exchanges is strengthened through conferences for our individual members, and unique conferences such as this one with the representatives of scholarly associations. We are very grateful to FLAME University for hosting us as we reflect on our strengths and patterns of resilience.”
