Mr. Shoaib Ahmad Rahim, a lecturer at Kardan University’s Economics Department, presented a research article at a one-day workshop on ‘Afghanistan in the World: 100 Years of Independence’ on Saturday, October 19, 2019, organized by the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) based in London. SOAS University of London marked the century of Afghan Independence with an early career conference where academicians from renowned universities presented their papers.

Mr. Rahim presented his paper about the economic history of Afghanistan starting from 1880. The literature about the mentioned period predominantly covers the aspects of political instability and conflict mostly while the discussions about economic history are largely sporadic.

A landlocked Afghanistan has had a unique economic journey given the strategic location as a buffer state between British India and Russia during Great Game before becoming relevant in the cold war between Russia and the United States, followed by civil war and the current post 9/11 era.

The paper presented a chronological history and characteristics of the Afghan economy under each head of state to date. As such, it provided an overview of the trade, domestic production, key sectors particularly agriculture, reliance on external funding and major constraints to economic growth and development. Further, it analyzes the policies, plans, and reforms.

“It was an honor to be part of such a remarkable event about Afghanistan. This seminar helped me understand the depth of my ignorance and serve as a source of motivation to learn more”, said Mr. Rahim.

The organizing team of the seminar at SOAS London University appreciated Mr. Rahim’s participation and his scholarly paper on the economic history of Afghanistan.

Kardan University provides unique academic opportunities for its students and faculty members to participate in international programs and workshops to gain fruitful insights and to foster better learning and teaching methods, and become role models to many more.