Background and Introduction
The Socrates dialogue is a method developed by the Athenian philosopher Plato. It uses logic and reason to break down the essence of an idea and seek out the deeper meaning of things. The goal is to understand the issue in question at a deeper level by asking probing questions and focusing on first principles. The aim is to simplify the process and help understand key concepts that are important. ASTI organizes ASD around various themes.
ASTI SOCRATES DIALOGUE: A DISCOURSE ON BUILDING A BETTER WORLD POST COVID19
On February 10, 2023, the Association of Science, Technology, and Innovation held for the first time a Socrates Dialogue Discourse that discussed the topic of how to build a better world after COVID 19. This topic focuses on how we can build a better world after COVID-19. The discourse was open to certain people and was attended by several invited guests to hold a debate on a given topic. During the discourse, the attendees shared their opinions, thoughts, and suggestions for consideration on how to build a better world after COVID-19.
The dialogue session aimed to discuss building a better world post-COVID-19, starting with what “post-COVID-19” means and its economic effects. Participants covered topics such as changes in the economy, companies adapting to technology, and the positive impact of certain changes.
Details of Discourse:
Speaker 1: Prof. Ulung Dato’ Dr. Rajah Rasiah, Executive Director of the Asia-Europe Institute at the University of Malaya
Speaker 2: Tan Sri Azman Mokhtar, Chairman of Tabung Haji and University Teknologi Malaysia
Speaker 3: Khailee Ng, Managing Partner at U.S. venture capital firm 500 Global
Moderator: Imran Ahmad, Author and Former Director at Khazanah Nasional
ASTI Socrates Dialogue (ASD) – Series B (Building a Better World), No. 2.
“Special Education in Schools and Neurodiversity at Workplace”
On 27th June 2023, the Association of Science, Technology & Innovation (ASTI) organised its ASTI Socrates Dialogue (ASD) – Series B (Building a Better World), No. 2. In an effort to promote inclusivity and create a more compassionate society, a dialogue titled “Special Education in Schools and Neurodiversity at Workplace” was held at Sentral Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. The event brought together educators, regulators, employers, experts, and advocates to discuss the importance of embracing neurodiversity and fostering an inclusive environment both in educational institutions and professional workplaces.
The dialogue session aimed to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by individuals with special education needs and those who are neurodivergent at the workplace, while highlighting the positive contributions they can make when provided with the right support and opportunities.
Details of Discourse:
Speaker 1: Mr. Dhruv Patel, the Chief Executive and Founder of Nisai Group
Speaker 2: Ms. Nasreen Ma, a Neuroeducationalist and the Founder of Meaningful Activation
Moderator: Dato’ Seri CM Vigneswaran Jeyendran, CEO of UMPER Consulting
The dialogue session concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders, urging them to actively contribute towards building an inclusive and caring society that values neurodiversity. Participants were encouraged to apply the knowledge gained from the session in their respective domains, with a commitment to creating positive change and advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with special education needs and neurodivergent conditions.
SPECIAL SOCRATES ROUND TABLE: HOW STUDENTS CAN PREPARE FOR AN EVEN FASTER CHANGING WORLD
The Association of Science, Technology, and Innovation (ASTI) organized a special Socrates Round Table on “How students can prepare for an even faster changing world”. The special Socrates Round Table was organized on 23 February 2024 at AC Hotel by Marriot, Kuala Lumpur. The special Socrates Roundtable was moderated by Dato’ Tharuma Rajah. He is a Member of The Board of trustee Teach for Malaysia and Senior Advisor to Pivotus Consulting.
Socrates Round Table was a small interactive group and participated by visionaries and experts on the subject in question from various sectors, particularly in the Education area. The round table aimed to galvanise society to start asking the right questions and expand on this domain of thought towards creating a more balanced worldview.
The need for active participation of all stakeholders in the development and implementation of the education system is imperative to keep pace with the current fast changing trends. Despite the challenges, there are reason for hope, and it’s imperative that we maintain faith to adapt the system to prepare students for the future.
UNDERSTANDING OPERATIONAL RESILIENCE: NAVIGATING THROUGH AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE
The Association of Science, Technology, and Innovation (ASTI) organized its 4th ASTI Socrates Dialogue (ASD) titled “Understanding Operational Resilience: Navigating Through an Uncertain Future” with visionaries and experts on the subject in question. The discourse was organized on 3 May 2024 at Wyndham Grand Bangsar Kuala Lumpur.
The ASTI Socrates Dialogue session was moderated by Dato’ Tharuma Rajah who is a member of the Board of Trustee, Teach for Malaysia and Senior Advisor to Pivotus Consulting. The main speaker at the dialogue session was Steve Yates. Besides being Founding Fellow of the Business Continuity Institute (FBCI) and many other organistions, Steve’s main claim to fame was during the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games where he was the Head of Business Continuity & Crisis Management, with additional responsibility for IT Disaster Recovery and Emergency Planning as a Category 1 responder for the Olympic Development Authority (ODA).
During the discourse, the attendees asked questions on Operational Resilience. The session was interactive with Steve giving an introduction to operational resilience as the ability of an organization to adapt and manage changes. The dialogue session has illustrated the critical importance of building robust and adaptable systems to withstand and thrive amid unpredictability. By anticipating potential disruptions and preparing accordingly, businesses can not only mitigate adverse impacts but also capitalize on emerging opportunities. As we navigate an increasingly uncertain landscape, our commitment to continuous learning and adaptability will be paramount in securing sustainable success.