Higher education institutions, through their core functions (research, teaching and service to the community) carried out in the context of institutional autonomy and academic freedom, should increase their interdisciplinary focus and promote critical thinking and active citizenship. This would contribute to sustainable development, peace, wellbeing and the realization of human rights, including gender equity.

2009 World Conference on Higher Education

We invite faculty member who are in any way involved in teaching community-related courses to incorporate the UCP-SARnet portal as a new instructional tool in the education of future community leaders.

Our portal provides a platform for multicultural dialog on the impact cultural, social and economic context has on the organization and effectiveness of community programs. UCP-SARnet encourages all members to share their community experience, visions and solutions to local community needs with teachers, community activists, community professionals, students and governments worldwide. Incorporating UCP-SARnet into your educational offer will not only enrich your library of resources but will directly benefit your students in the following ways (not exhaustive):

	UCP-SARnet enables students and faculty to build networks and partnerships between people involved in community-related programs.
	Students and faculty are encouraged to publish their works related to MDG projects, especially semester projects, honors thesis or master and doctoral thesis.
	All works are made visible to our various UCP-SARnet members worldwide, and allows for meaningful multicultural dialogue on the issues and conclusions.
	Students and Faculty may contribute to the workshops and conferences organized by the network.
	By promoting critical thinking and active citizenship, students and faculty may gain inspiration for involvement in social action.

As teachers we need to make our own contribution towards disseminating knowledge about the UN MDGs as well as to educate new generations of community leaders who will encourage and empower citizens' involvement in social change. To end poverty and hunger, to provide universal education, to achieve gender equality, to improve child and maternal health, to combat HIV/AIDS and to secure environmental sustainability we need to create strong local communities and inspire civic movement.  We also need community leaders that are mindful of cultural diversity and welcome the opportunity that this diversity brings. You, the faculty, are a direct connection to these future leaders, thus, it is your contribution which will make the significant difference needed in order to attain the UN MDGs.

If you would like to get involved with UCP-SARnet please CONTACT US and provide all requested information. We gladly welcome all questions, comments or suggestions for UCP-SARnet as well.