We live in a time of profound crisis. Sri Lanka’s economic collapse has exacerbated social inequalities and political instability, while globally, the resurgence of far-right extremism threatens democracy and human rights. Meanwhile, the worsening ecological crisis—marked by climate disasters and environmental degradation—demands urgent action. These crises are deeply interconnected, shaped by historical injustices, economic structures, and political choices.
In moments of uncertainty, the humanities and social sciences provide critical tools to understand and respond to the world around us. This conference seeks to explore how intellectual inquiry can serve as a guide in turbulent times. How can academic scholarship contribute to real-world struggles? What role does critical thinking play in shaping public discourse and policymaking? Can the humanities and social sciences not only interpret the world but also transform it?
We invite our students to engage in a conversation about the power of ideas in navigating crisis. Together, let us explore how our disciplines can serve as a lens through which we make sense of the present and envision a more just and sustainable future.

Students from the Faculty of HSS are invited to submit abstracts under the following tracks in line with the above theme: