For the past few years, I would not fault anyone for feeling that they need to steel themselves before turning to their favourite podcast or seeking out the news of the day. We are still recovering from the uncertainty and isolation of the pandemic, and the world continues to wrestle with some hard facts: global conflicts have doubled over the past five years, and we have seen a sharp rise in xenophobic rhetoric. The rise of artificial intelligence and campus protests around academic freedom and freedom of speech have led to increased skepticism about the post-secondary sector. This global context is having a profound impact on what, how and who we teach.
I write to you today though, with hope for the future, inspired in large measure by higher education.
York is particularly well-positioned to lead in this unprecedented time of change. As a progressive international university that has embedded the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into our University Academic Plan, collaborating across cultures, sectors and borders is central to York’s mission of building a more sustainable and prosperous future. Over the past few decades, we have seen how international experiences and global partnerships enrich every area of our University.
Studies show that internationalization can foster greater social responsibility, inclusivity, and intercultural proficiency while also helping students gain a competitive edge in the workforce. At York, approximately half of our alumni report having a deeper appreciation for diversity and enhanced intercultural communication skills as a result of collaboration between diverse students, including through our innovative globally networked learning program.
Our partnerships with more than 300 international institutions have expanded our experiential education offerings, further priming our students for success in the workforce. This commitment to global co-operation has attracted international donors, including Dr. Taihua Wang, whose $1.6-million contribution recently resulted in the opening of a new Science Student Success Centre.
In research and innovation, our global collaborations deliver real-world impact. At the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research, a partnership with Doctors Without Borders resulted in the development of a groundbreaking AI-powered tool for improving water safety in refugee camps.
Through the Together Mission, a partnership between the Schulich School of Business and the Government of India, more than 600 student entrepreneurs, investors and mentors in India and Canada came together to support future entrepreneurial leaders.
As the academic lead of the UNITAR Global Water Academy and host of Canada’s first UNITAR training centre, CIFAL York, the University and its many partners are addressing some of the most pressing sustainability challenges.
The world needs universities without borders to unite talented scholars and young leaders with a shared commitment to realizing a more sustainable, inclusive, peaceful and equitable future. The increasing number of rare and unpredictable events profoundly impacting the world do not make the challenge easy – but we continue to learn and adapt with increasing agility. As alumni, you can be proud of York’s leadership in bridging divides and advancing a bold vision for a lasting positive impact.
