The Querida Amazonía group delves into the Global Compact on Education from the University

With the presence of Brother Juan Antonio Ojeda, the urgency of rethinking and renewing education was emphasized, not only in response to the current circumstances of educational crisis aggravated by the pandemic, but as a prevailing need.

On Thursday, September 28, 2023, the session of the interdisciplinary group Querida Amazonía was held in which Brother Juan Antonio Ojeda, brother of La Salle, gave the presentation titled “Leading the Global Compact on Education from the University”, where he highlighted the need for practical and concrete action to lead educational transformation worldwide from university institutions.

The presentation focused on three key objectives. First of all, a call was made to take up the invitation that Pope Francis has extended regarding the Global Compact on Education, underlining the importance of putting it into action. Secondly, it was urged to take the initiative in the construction of this pact, recognizing that responsibility does not fall only on world authorities and international organizations, but also on universities and other educational agents. Finally, we emphasis on the need to assume the commitment to transform education to create a more human, fraternal, supportive and sustainable society.

The urgency of rethinking and renewing education was emphasized, not only in response to the current circumstances of educational crisis aggravated by the pandemic, but as a prevailing need. “Education can no longer be seen simply as an isolated sector of society, but as a fundamental component that influences the life and dynamics of people and the community as a whole,” stressed the speaker, who also specified that this change must be addressed not only as an emergency, but as a response to a true educational emergency.

One of the central points of the presentation was the importance of establishing a new social contract for education in which all members of society, including educational institutions, commit through individual and collective actions to transform education and society as a whole, which implies courage, leadership, creativity and mutual care, in addition to listening and learning from others to build together a more inclusive and equitable educational future, added Brother Juan Antonio.

Likewise, he delved into the relevance of collaboration between universities and other educational actors, as well as the need to understand and adapt education to local and global realities. He also noted the importance of autonomy and recognition of educators as generators of knowledge and fundamental actors in educational transformation.

The presentation concluded by inviting reflection and dialogue, encouraging all sectors of society to join in this effort for educational change, as well as educational institutions, particularly universities, to assume their leadership role in the construction of a Global Compact on Education that generates a lasting social impact, which promotes inclusive and quality education.