ABSTRACT: Al Kindi, the 10th Century philosopher observed that “We respect education because it teaches us values”. Across the globe, inculcation of values once an important objective of universities, has receded possibly because the prevalent Western model of higher education has played down their significance.
Sadly, renowned universities, especially in developing countries, have tended to confine their task to imparting knowledge in specific disciplines or professional fields. Their students are hardly exposed to general education or the liberal arts which inspire a spirit of inquiry and foster critical thinking skills. They learn little about their own cultural and religious values nor are they sufficiently exposed to civic engagement and volunteering. Despite the prevailing crises of governance across the globe, most students seldom learn about their country’s Constitution and governance structures.
via International Exhibition & Conference on Higher Education :: 2012 Keynote and Topic Speakers.
Ismailimail 