The Rt Hon. The Lord David Blunkett joined University Canada West (UCW) for a day filled with insightful and thought-provoking discussions.
On the morning of Tuesday, June 17, Lord Blunkett delivered a lecture to the UCW Community and engaged in a discussion about “Education as Central to Democratic Engagement”, where he explored how education empowers individuals to engage meaningfully in democratic processes, fostering informed citizenship and active civic engagement.
Lord Blunkett shared his view on the three elements of education: how it is critical that humans develop critical thinking, that education teaches people about how to be part of civilization and lastly that education teaches us how to survive, gaining our “own independence.”
“Education changes how people see the world around them,” he said.
Reflecting on his own experience of being 4 years old and being sent to a residential school for the blind, despite the “scarring experience,” his family encouraged his further education. He eventually became the first member of his family to attend university.
Lord Blunkett spoke of the need to have drive and tenacity to do things for ourselves, but also the importance of having the support and “helping hand” of others. Whether that is teachers, loved ones or friends.
Looking to the future of education, Lord Blunkett said there needs to be a focus on “equipping for jobs of tomorrow” and “lifelong learning” looking to the future such as what is done at UCW.
“Look to the technology tomorrow to liberate people in developing countries,” he said, suggesting new ways to develop agriculture or to develop the strengths of that country.
He also left the audience with some advice during an engaging Q&A, reminding everyone to “treat others with kindness on your way up.” Leadership is always changing, and you’ll have that support and respect.
That evening, Lord Blunkett took part in a panel discussion about “Democracy and Sovereignty in an Age of Disruption: A Diplomatic Dialogue,” moderated by Robin McLay, Regional Director, Fulbright Canada West, and Director, Honouring Nations Canada.
“By collaborating, we are so much stronger,” Lord Blunkett said during his keynote address, which kicked off the discussion.
Fellow panellists included Thomas Codrington, British Consul-General in Vancouver, Jorge Humberto Ojeda Bueno, Columbian Consul-General in Vancouver, Russell Banzet, Honorary Consulate of the Czech Republic and UCW Sessional faculty member, and Mable Elmore, Member of Legislative Assembly of BC for Vancouver-Kensington.
The group touched on subjects such as how democracy values are evolving around the globe, the traditional concept of sovereignty shifting and AI disruption.
Lord Blunkett is a renowned British Labour politician and former Cabinet Minister. Blind since birth, he is widely respected for his resilience and distinguished public service.
He served as the Member of Parliament for Sheffield Brightside from 1987 to 2010 and held several senior government posts, including Secretary of State for Education and Employment, Home Secretary, and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions under Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Appointed to the House of Lords in 2015 as Baron Blunkett of Brightside and Hillsborough, he continues to be an influential voice in public policy, particularly in education, social justice and disability rights.
