When we think of the North Pole, we often think of Santa, reigndeers and Christmas elves making toys and wrapping gifts. Few people think of the need for education for those living north of the Arctic Circle; however Finland, Sweden, Norway, the United States, Iceland, Russia and Canada, have a University system in place.
University of the Arctic, was founded in 2001. It is composed of 121 smaller, individualized and locations that cater to the specifc culture and needs of the community, and grant their own degrees. The University prides itself in educating its students on matters that are of a concern to the people living in the farthest northern reaches of the earth, and utilizing non-traditional methods of teaching, including embracing the indeigenous cultures of the north. The mission is to empower the north, improve access to education, serve the community, create shared knowledge, build regional identity and strengthen the voice of the Arctic.
Undergraduate student programs include various science and social sciences, that focus on Arctic life; as well as a few selected more traditional fields of study. There are almost one hundred Graduate programs offered as well, in all seven countries. Students who attend the University of the Arctic, have the opportunity to participate in an "north2north" exchange program, where they can take courses at any of the 121 locations while pursuing their degree.
Recently, the Canadian government decided to cut funding to the University of the Arctic, after it's three provinces located with the Arctic region refused to contribute funding. As a result, the University will have to cut its programming efforts in Cananda. Finland and Norway are the other two countries who are large financial supporters of the institution. After the Canadian cuts, Finland and Norway will now have a stronger input on curriculum decisions.
Thank you, Kim, for posting this and making us aware that budget cuts and financial issues are not just a local issue. Those institutions already roughing it will need to be even more diligent with funding and revenue sources while some of us are able to calmly discuss the possibility of increasing the state tax.I think my favorite comments regarding the Canadian cuts are from Tim Querengesser for the Huffington post:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.huffingtonpost.ca/tim-querengesser/arctic-university-cut-funding_b_1012002.html
He has some good points about why Canada is cutting the money but also gives some statistics that further sadden anyone who believes students should be able to attend a university in their homeland. His points include pondering if the authorities have considered with whom the future of their territories rests. If the people who live in this area are unable to attain higher learning, how will they sustain their communities? Which in turn support the entire country!
In an era of supposed global economy and citizenship, I would hope the other countries who are stakeholders would recognize the importance of providing ongoing service, to the students and the Circumpolar North.