The steps universities must take to secure peace and reconciliation | Opinion - Times Higher Education (THE)

Higher education can play a lead role in mending past injustices in innovative and sustainable ways, says Joanna Newman, chief executive and secretary general of the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
 

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A new Indigenous map of Canada made its parliamentary debut in Ottawa earlier this month. In place of provincial borders lie markings of green, purple and yellow, each one representing Indigenous territories. Also marked are the names of the traditional languages where they are commonly spoken – Cree languages, Inuktitut and Ojibway, alongside many more.

The map is one part of Canada’s response to its Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which recommended the creation of a “culturally appropriate” curriculum when it wrapped up in 2015.

It is also part of a recent history of governments around the world proving receptive to innovative approaches to peace and reconciliation.

Securing peace and reconciliation anywhere is an inherently complex pursuit. Yet it has fast become an issue that defines our time. Without it, countries are riven by conflict, communities are fragmented and people face undue suffering...

This month the Association of Commonwealth Universities launched the Peace and Reconciliation Network. This will provide resources and opportunities for higher education institutions to collaborate on research, teaching and learning and student and staff exchanges.
Bringing together common historical ties and diverse cultures, the network offers a global framework for progressive thinking, shared ideas, and even joint action, around higher education’s response to these challenges.
Read more...

Source: Times Higher Education (THE)