News & Events
Academics and business leaders at a recent Bournemouth University event stressed the need for students to gain a better understanding of global issues to ensure they are equipped for an ever-changing economy and a future which is uncertain. At the launch of the Bournemouth University’s Centre for Global Perspectives, guests including Dr Romy Fraser, Founder of Neal’s Yard Remedies and BU Honorary Doctorate, and Jeffrey Newman, Director of the Earth Charter in the UK, highlighted the role of social responsibility and the influence of businesses on global issues, including climate change. In a context where business is increasingly global, it becomes a priority to ensure that all students develop a broader world view, have the appropriate knowledge and skills to address sustainable development and are able to work across cultures. Many new jobs will be ‘green collar jobs’. Christine Shiel, Director of the Centre, added: “Whilst students travel abroad more and use new technology to interact with people from around the world, evidence shows that UK students have limited global awareness and are less likely to know about current issues and the impact on (and of) global businesses.” “For UK students to compete in the global economy, universities have to ensure that they develop a broader understanding of global issues, that they appreciate the inter-connected nature of global concerns and the importance of developing cross- cultural capability. As empowered global citizens, with an understanding of the importance of corporate social responsibility, these businessmen and women of the future can be a positive influence on the role of business in society.” The Centre for Global Perspectives is already running a number of initiatives to enable students to learn from international students and to think beyond their own country context. BU’s Overseas Travel Awards enable students to visit Africa, Asia, South America, Canada, Europe, Oceania or the US on work placements, research or field trips helping them to develop knowledge of the range of issues that affect a global economy whilst enhancing future employability prospects. Working with DEED (Development Education in Dorset), the three-year Skills for Life project is also supporting students to enhance their employability skills. Learning takes the form of volunteering and active citizenship: students facilitate workshops on global issues, actively promote sustainable development, the alleviation of poverty and social justice, and organise citizenship days for local schools on campus. On a global scale, the Centre is encouraging BU students to engage with social entrepreneurship to support other countries. United Youth Development Organisation encapsulates the global in the local, developing skills for employability through fund raising and volunteering. In essence, youth in the global North raises micro-finance funds, for youth in the global South. For further media information, or to interview Christine Shiel, please contact Lucy McQuillin on tel: 01202 961037 or email: lmcquillin@bournemouth.ac.uk << Back to Global Perspectives News and Events |
