By Surbhi Gogia
The Sikh community is renowned for its economic, social, and political contributions worldwide. Among its members are also brilliant scholars conducting cutting-edge research in various fields. To showcase and celebrate these accomplishments, the Guru Nanak Institute of Global Studies (GNI) held its third annual summit at Dhaliwal Banquet Hall in Surrey from September 28-29. The summit served as a platform for exploring the future of the Sikh community and discussing pressing global issues.
Over two days, the event brought together scholars, professionals, community leaders, and students to delve into important topics, with a special focus on global food security and sustainability. Gian Singh Sandhu, president of GNI, expressed his vision for the institute, saying, “GNI is on its way to becoming a university. We’re currently accredited to offer six diploma programs and two certificate courses, all approved by the provincial government, ensuring the highest standards of quality. Our keynote speaker Dr Alastair Summerlee former president and vice-chancellor of the University of Guelph and Carleton, discussed building an excellent university from scratch. Dr. Summerlee’s address drew a sharp contrast between for-profit and non-profit institutes, who face entirely different challenges.”
From research on environmentally friendly housing to Sikh scientists’ contribution in the field of global field production, reconstructing Zafarnama, or discussing mental health of the Sikh population, the Sumit offered a unique platform to exchange ideas and foster collaboration amongst various age groups.
Dr Kulvinder Singh Gill from Washington State University who has published over 200 scientific papers, developed 4 wheat varieties developed rapid breeding methods and many more ground breaking research, talked about Sikh scientists’ contribution to global wheat production.
A key panel discussion focused on the challenges faced by international students, particularly those from India. Panelists addressed how for-profit universities often exploit these students, neglecting their mental health and overall well-being. The discussion made it clear that there is an urgent need for policies to support international students emotionally and psychologically. The summit organizers committed to conducting further research on the issues raised and submitting policy recommendations to the government.
Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in South Asian households was another vital topic, addressed by Dr. Nimrat Kaur Bahiya, a psychologist and faculty member at Coventry University in the UK. She highlighted how mental health issues are often ignored within Sikh families in the UK, stressing the importance of open conversations on the subject.
Dr. Harpreet Singh, a research scholar from Harvard University, presented his study on Guru Gobind Singh’s Zafarnama, analyzing it in the context of various languages and grammatical structures.
Dr Sagarjeet Singh, a practicing physician and a research scholar from Pakistan brought attention to the plight of the Bagri Sikhs of Pakistan, revealing that 56% of Bagri Sikh children in Pakistan never receive formal education.
Well-known community members and scholars from Canada like Baljit Singh from Saskatchewan University, Wally Oppal, former Justice of BC’s court of appeal, Rumneek Joah, Associate editor, Press Progress and Anupreet Sandhu Bhamra, UBC faculty member universities participated in a panel discussion on Canadian political landscape. Federal Minister Harjit Singh Sajjan, also participated in the Summit.
The summit not only emphasized academic achievements but also focused on highlighting the global impact and contributions of Sikhs. Gian Singh Sandhu said, “We have identified key areas to highlight, and every year we change the focus to keep the discussions fresh and relevant.” The research presented at the summit will be published in the coming months, allowing people from around the world to benefit from the insights shared at this gathering.
