Engaging over 300 students in early 2014, the global citizenship grants (GCGs) have proven to be a successful program for global engagement here at University of the Fraser Valley.
The GCG program is designed to support UFV student-led events, activities, projects, training sessions or other appropriate ventures that encourage the UFV student body to be global citizens and, in turn, contribute to the internationalization of UFV campuses. Additionally, students contributing to GCG events in leadership roles will be recognized through the Co-Curricular Record (CCR).
Global citizenship grants were piloted during the 2014 winter semester and four events that promoted intercultural learning and sharing were funded. The Chinese Students and Scholars Association, UFV India, Sikh Students Alliance, South Asian Peer Network, and the International Student Club were all successful recipients of the GCGs.
One of the most widely attended events was Chinese New Year, which was organized and celebrated by the Chinese Students and Scholars Association and UFV India.
“Working together with people from another culture to celebrate a Chinese holiday was very rewarding” says Yaou (Jason) Yu, club president. “It was really great to bring together the two largest international student populations for a celebration.”
Bringing students, staff, and faculty together to engage locally and globally through intercultural events and learning opportunities is the focus of the Global Engagement portfolio at UFV. Coordinator Chelsey Laird is thrilled to support student learning outside of the classroom.
“I am really looking forward to working with a variety of student groups and connecting their passion for global issues and social justice with the diversity at UFV. The GCG really supports student groups who want to take it upon themselves to learn about the world and each other. There will never be a shortage of opportunities for learning when it comes to global engagement.”
Laird will be holding GCG Information sessions in the Global Lounge at UFV International (B223, Abby campus) on
• Mon, Oct 20 -1 12:30-1 pm
• Wed, Oct 22 – 11-11:30 am
• Or by appointment by emailing: campus.buzz@ufv.ca
For more information about the Global Citizenship Grants, please visit: http://www.ufv.ca/international/international_student_life/global-citizenship-grants/
Photo courtesy of University of the Fraser Valley. UFV Holi celebrations 2014, funded in part by a Global Citizenship Grant.
For more information, contact Chelsey Laird at chelsey.laird@ufv.ca
12/31/2014