Bridging innovation: ECU hosts groundbreaking Australia-Bhutan Research Conference 2024

First published by Edith Cowan University

The event, held at ECU's Joondalup Campus and accessible online, fostered a vibrant exchange of interdisciplinary perspectives on emerging global and regional topics. It attracted over 250 delegates representing institutions from Australia, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, and other countries.

In collaboration with the Royal Bhutanese Embassy in Canberra, ECU's International Office and the Australia-Bhutan Friendship Centre, housed at the ECU Hub in Bhutan, facilitated this pioneering Conference, the first of its kind in Western Australia.

The Conference was officially opened by Hon David Templeman MLA, Minister for Culture and the Arts; Sport and Recreation; International Education; and Heritage. In addressing attendees the Minister was joined by ECU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Clare Pollock and HE Mr Sonam Tobgay, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bhutan to Australia.

The three leaders emphasised the importance of fostering collaboration and innovation between the two nations, highlighting how such initiatives strengthen bilateral ties and pave the way for meaningful research and knowledge-sharing.

Exploring innovation and shared challenges

With the theme Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Emerging Topics: Bridging Innovation between Australia and Bhutan, the Conference underscored Bhutan’s transformative journey toward economic sustainability and creating a knowledge-based society. Over three days, more than 70 expert speakers tackled critical themes, including:

• Digital Innovation for Sustainable Growth: Examining technology's role in Bhutan's global impact.
• Sustaining Heritage: Balancing cultural preservation with environmental stewardship and development.
• Innovating Education: Advancing learning methods, accessibility and leadership for future challenges.
• Happiness and Wellbeing: Investigating Bhutan's global reputation as a blueprint for societal thriving.

Through engaging presentations, panel discussions and interactive sessions, the Conference inspired participants to think creatively and explore actionable strategies to address shared challenges.

Fostering bilateral ties

ECU's enduring partnership with Bhutan was a focal point of the event, reflecting the University's commitment to fostering educational and cultural exchanges. Over the years, ECU has strengthened connections with Bhutan through tailored training programs, research collaborations and student mobility initiatives.

ECU's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Clare Pollock, called ECU a true friend of Bhutan, whose collaboration with Bhutan flourishes through meaningful initiatives and a shared commitment to education and societal progress. She stated that ECU is proud to serve as a bridge between Australia and Bhutan, facilitating the exchange of ideas, innovation and opportunities.

"This Conference stands as a testament to our shared commitment to collaboration and progress. Let's make the most of this opportunity to share ideas, build connections, and find innovative ways to drive policy, business, and societal solutions together," Professor Pollock said.

A showcase of Bhutanese and Australian expertise

The Conference built upon the success of its inaugural edition, held at the University of Sydney in 2023. This year's event expanded its focus, featuring pioneering research and insights that bridged the cultural and academic landscapes of Australia and Bhutan.

Ambassador Sonam Tobgay of the Royal Bhutanese Embassy praised ECU for hosting the Conference, emphasising its importance in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

"This platform allows us to strengthen ties, share groundbreaking ideas, and create a foundation for future collaboration," Ambassador Tobgay remarked, noting that Australia has the largest pool of Bhutanese scholars.

The Conference also featured distinguished leaders from Bhutan as keynote speakers, who emphasised the need to promote innovation and foster a strong and professional culture of research and collaboration in Bhutan. The speakers included Dasho Chewang Rinzin, the Founding Director of the Royal Institute of Governance and Strategic Studies; Mr. Ujjwal Deep Dahal, Chief Executive Officer of Druk Holding and Investments; Dr. Rinchen Dorji, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Royal University of Bhutan; Dr. Kinzang P. Tshering, President of Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan; and Madam Tshering Dolkar, Executive Director of RENEW.

Their inspiring keynote addresses focused on critical themes such as Building Bhutan's Future Workforce and Harnessing Research for Development. These thought-provoking discussions captivated the audience, offering fresh perspectives on innovation and exploring how the research presented could address Bhutan's developmental priorities.

Successful outcomes – bridges built

The Australia-Bhutan Research Conference has successfully established itself as a vibrant platform for fostering collaboration, sharing groundbreaking research, and inspiring innovative solutions. With a focus on building connections between Australia and Bhutan, the Conference has empowered researchers, academics, and industry leaders to exchange ideas, explore new opportunities, and network with like-minded professionals.

This year’s Conference highlighted the exceptional work of talented researchers, who presented inspiring studies on Bhutan’s unique challenges and opportunities. By sharing their research findings and innovative concepts, participants contributed to the growing synergy between Australia and Bhutan's academic and professional communities.

The Conference culminated with an engaging workshop designed to translate research into actionable strategies. The Ambassador also announced the 2025 Australia-Bhutan Conference, which will be hosted in Bhutan.

Participants left with valuable insights, strengthened networks, and a shared commitment to advancing Bhutan's sustainable growth through research-driven innovation.

Looking ahead

The Australia-Bhutan Research Conference 2024 marked a milestone in ECU's commitment to fostering innovation and cultural exchange. From sustainability to digital innovation, the event sparked transformative discussions that will shape future collaborations.

This event underscores the importance of collaboration, emphasising how shared knowledge and ideas can drive impactful change. It serves as a reminder of the immense potential for research to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and inspire progress for both Bhutan and Australia.

As the Conference concluded, attendees left inspired by the possibilities of interdisciplinary research and the shared commitment to advancing mutual growth. The success of this event reaffirms ECU’s place as a leader in global academic partnerships.

For more highlights and insights from the Conference, visit the Australia-Bhutan Research Conference website. Together, ECU and Bhutan are bridging innovation to create a brighter future.