Editorial
issue 91 dec 2024

The Transformative Role of Global Citizenship Education

The world today is grappling with the paradox of digital hyper-globalization and political anti-globalization. On one hand, the pervasive dependence on social media and digital communications has contributed to greater inter-connectedness. On the other hand, there is the growing rise of economic protectionism and a resurgence of nationalism and neotribalism.

In light of these challenges, Global Citizenship Education (GCE) remains key to cultivating critical discernment, multicultural consciousness, empathetic and hospitable dispositions, particularly towards those who may be hurt by the injustices arising from globalization itself.

In Singapore, GCE is of particular importance given her multicultural population and her open economy. Historically, Singapore established her identity as a global city in the early years of her independence. In education, the development of civic, global and cross-cultural literacy is one of the key competencies in the Ministry of Education’s 21st century competencies framework.

The vital ethical question for GCE is how do we prepare students to live in a diverse world of difference? More specifically, how can GCE equip students to navigate increasing instances of xenophobia, ethnocentrism and other forms of discrimination that have contributed to forms of polarizations in the world today?

GCE’s transformative potential can be understood through the principle of the 3Cs Connectedness, Care and Change.

First, GCE can provide opportunities for young people to connect with others by reading and learning about other cultures as well as by dialoguing and collaborating with others to address pressing social and global issues.

Second, GCE goes beyond the acquisition of knowledge about the world or intercultural communication skills. More significantly, it seeks to deepen students’ cosmopolitan dispositions especially their care for others that goes beyond superficial sympathy to other-centric empathy.

Third, one key purpose of GCE is to empower youths to be change-makers such as becoming bridge-builders, peacemakers and proactive contributors to helping others, and not just themselves, flourish in the world.

By nurturing empathy, critical-ethical sensibilities and a spirit of collaboration, GCE empowers students not just to navigate the challenges of the future, but to collectively shape a more just, inclusive and sustainable world.

Associate Professor Suzanne Choo
English Language and Literature Academic Department
Head, Research, Singapore Centre for Character & Citizenship Education
National Institute of Education, Singapore

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