Seminar: To what extent is a socially just, equitable and inclusive educational system possible in an (un)just society?

To what extent is a socially just, equitable and inclusive educational system possible in an (un)just society?

Dr Denise Mifsud
Associate Professor 
Department of Education
University of Bath

June 4, 2025 (Wednesday)
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Room 646, Meng Wah Complex, HKU / by zoom
Zoom meeting ID: https://hku.zoom.us/j/93360309478
  
Chair:  Professor Paul Campbell 
 

Abstract: 
I problematize the issue of social justice, equity and inclusion in education, while also drawing connections to the Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDG1 (No Poverty) and SDG4 (Quality Education). The term 'social justice’ is increasingly prevalent in public discourses and texts within the education field and industry, establishing itself as a central element in contemporary education policy and practice. It also plays a vital role in shaping educational theory and is frequently considered by politicians, policymakers, and practitioners when reflecting on the aims of education and the function of schools. However, despite its widespread use, education professionals, researchers, and policymakers often invoke the term without fully addressing its broader social, cultural, economic, and political implications. While there is broad consensus on the importance of social justice as an educational objective, debates persist regarding its precise definition and how it should be translated into policy and practice within schools. What challenges do global leaders continue to face in building education systems that are truly socially just, equitable, and inclusive?
 

About the speaker:
Dr Denise Mifsud is Associate Professor in Educational Leadership, Management and Governance in the Department of Education at the University of Bath, UK. She has many years of practitioner experience in education settings in both teaching and top-level leadership roles within the Ministry for Education, Malta, in addition to higher education experience in Malta, Scotland and England. She has published in several international top-rated journals, in addition to monographs and edited volumes, as well as won awards by the AERA, EERA and SERA. Besides journal editorial roles, she has also held voluntary leadership roles in BELMAS and BERA. She is convenor of the International Collective for the study of Michel Foucault in Educational Leadership, Administration and Policy.

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