In keeping with its vision to enrich society through transformative educational experiences, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) commemorated the World Day for Social Justice with a public talk.

Celebrated yearly since 2009, the World Day of Social Justice is a United Nations (UN) declared international day which emphasizes the global importance of social justice. Upholding human rights, advocating sustainable development and eliminating poverty are among the issues and objectives typically highlighted by international organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations and other stakeholders. This year’s theme was ‘Closing the Inequalities Gap to Achieve Social Justice’ which reflects that inequalities between and among countries are weakening social cohesion, preventing people from achieving their potential and burdening economies.

Led by Dr. Joselia Neves, associate dean of social engagement and access, the college’s panel considered a range of social justice issues, including education, accessibility, human rights and nationalism and identity. Discussions then turned to practical steps to encourage positive change by providing user-centered accessible environments and accepting people of different cultural, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds. Panel speakers included Amal A. Al-Mannai, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Foundation for Social Work; Dr. Azza Abdelmoneium, Director of Research Department at Doha International Family Institute; Ahmed Habib, Senior ICT Access Policy Specialist at Mada Center;  Zarqa Parvez, Affiliate Instructor in Middle Eastern Studies, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, HBKU; and Ahmed Al-Shahrani an adapted athlete. 

Proceedings concluded with a questions and answers session and further interventions from the floor.

Speaking after the talk, Dr. Amal Al-Malki, founding dean, CHSS, said: “The theme of this year’s World Day of Social Justice reflects the urgent need to reduce inequality around the world. As things stand, one in five workers live in moderate or extreme poverty and are effectively trapped by stagnant wages and geographical disparities. Gender inequality also ensures that a significant amount of the global population misses out on the full benefits of economic development. This must change.

“Today’s event also underlines the College’s commitment to nurturing socially responsible global citizens beyond the classroom. Tackling social injustice is by no means the preserve of academia and policy-making circles. This was amply demonstrated by our audience who offered some thought-provoking ideas and perspectives for what it is undoubtedly a shared global concern. In this respect, we’re looking forward to holding further public talks in the not-too-distant future.”

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences regularly holds events to highlight its research activities and projects. For more information, please visit chss.hbku.edu.qa