SDG Learncast What can we learn from the future? - The role of futurists in achieving sustainable development with Sohail Inayatullah of UNESCO
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Feb 29, 2024 
Sohail Inayatullah, UNESCO's Inaugural Chair for Future Studies, dives into the significance of futurism in shaping sustainable development. He discusses how double-loop learning can transform decision-making processes and tackle emerging challenges. The conversation touches on the integration of cultural perspectives and community engagement in policy-making, particularly in infrastructure. Sohail also explores innovative foresight techniques like backcasting, emphasizing optimism and adaptability as essential tools for envisioning a sustainable future.
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Futures Workshops
- Sohail Inayatullah's pre-COVID work involved multi-day futures workshops.
- Organizations sought his help to resolve internal disagreements, manage complex information, or establish long-term visions.
Envisioning the Future
- Start by envisioning the impossible, then make it real.
- Ask about youth's future and what needs transformation, like outdated work practices.
Well-being in New Zealand
- New Zealand shifted its focus from GDP to well-being, impacting infrastructure planning.
- This required considering not just physical, but also social well-being.