Brock Press

Issue date: 11/18/08 Section: News

Media Credit: Dario Ayala

The theme for this year's International Education Week is Promoting Global Citizenship, and Brock is joining countries from around the world to celebrate cultural diversity. From Nov. 17-21, this nation-wide event will showcase international initiatives that prepare Canada to participate in a global village.
At Brock, the week will raise awareness of the broad range of student and faculty involvement in international programs and events, as well as celebrate the benefits of international education and the presence of many diverse cultures at Brock.
"About six per cent of Brock students are international students, studying here on visas, from many countries around the world," said Sheila Young, the director of Brock International and International Liaison Officer.
Over half of those students are from China, but other students are from countries such as the US, the UK, India, Bermuda, Korea, France, Australia, the Bahamas, Ghana and Russia.
"Brock University is very active internationally, as evidenced by the level of activity and involvement on our campus," said Young.
In order to give students a taste of international flavours, Brock Dining Services is introducing international menu options at the Decew and Lowenberger dining halls, as well as the Tower Cafeteria and Walker Complex.
Vegan and vegetarian options will be available.
"Food is part of the international community," said Neil Nijma, marketing manager of Brock Dining Services. "Brock is international […] we want to take part in [IEW]."
Celebrity chef and food writer Hari Nayak will be coming to Brock to train staff in the art of modern Indian cuisine and "enhance [the] Brock dining experience".
Along with celebrating world flavours, there will be many events held throughout the week, including presentations on travelling abroad, cross-cultural workshops, photo exhibitions and exchange information sessions.
"My hope is that Brock students take advantage of what International Education Week has to offer in terms of bringing the world to Brock," said Nijma.
There will also be events held throughout the school year which celebrate and promote cultural diversity. Students can look forward to February's African Heritage Month and its musical evenings, dramatic performances, educational tours of historic sites and the underground railroad and cooking demonstrations.
On March 4, there will be the popular Celebration of Nations with 150 flags on display in the Pond Inlet.
"Students should try to come out to as much as they can," said Young.
International Education Week at Brock is organized by Brock International and the Office of International Services in collaboration with the Campus Store, Career Services, Community Connections, Dining Services, ESL Services, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Business, International Market Development and Human Rights and Equity Services.
Partial proceeds raised during IEW will go towards the Brock-Spread the Net campaign.
For more information, please visit iew-sei.ca

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