4 minute read
CIDSEL: Local engagement with global impact
BY TAMI HARRIOTT
Since 2008, the Centre for International Development, Social Entrepreneurship, and Leadership (CIDSEL) at the University of Sunshine Coast has been a vital partner in driving sustainable development. With over 90 projects across 44 countries, CIDSEL is committed to improving lives and fostering sustainable development worldwide.
A Mission Rooted In Collaboration
CIDSEL’s mission is clear: to work collaboratively with development partners for global betterment. This mission is rooted in a transdisciplinary approach, allowing CIDSEL to address the complex and evolving challenges developing nations face. By focusing on poverty alleviation through education, gender equality, and development partnerships, CIDSEL is making a tangible difference in the world.
Empowering Communities Through Capacity Development
At the heart of CIDSEL’s work is capacity development. By nurturing local talent in developing countries, CIDSEL empowers communities to tackle their unique challenges through engagement and technical skills. This approach ensures solutions are sustainable and tailored to each community’s needs.
CIDSEL’s impact is particularly strong in the Indo-Pacific region. By collaborating with donors, development banks, global university networks, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), CIDSEL optimises its impact, helping partners recalibrate development to provide opportunities for all.
Global Impact Projects
CIDSEL’s projects are diverse and impactful. A recent agri-food trade mission brought 20 Cambodian businesses to the Sunshine Coast, fostering relationships that promise enhanced trade relations.
In Vietnam, CIDSEL partnered with universities and practitioners to explore solutions to gender-based violence, drawing on Australia’s strategies. In Bangladesh, CIDSEL explored blue economy governance for gender equality and poverty alleviation, working with local organisations like the SIMEC (System Improvement and Modifying Engineering Company) Institute of Technology. This initiative will lead to a conference and publication on sustainable blue economy development in Bangladesh.
In Papua New Guinea, CIDSEL has made significant contributions by working with the higher education sector to develop leadership capabilities, mentor academic staff, and assess digital capabilities. Locally, CIDSEL provides study tours for New Colombo Plan scholars, enhancing their understanding of First Nations culture as they prepare to travel overseas, amplifying their diplomatic sensitivities.
Engaging Locally And Expanding Networks
CIDSEL continuously seeks new ways to engage locally and expand its community network. The team of consultants, often semiretired or retired professionals, bring a wealth of experience and cultural sensitivity, working towards improving society.
In addition to its global initiatives, CIDSEL significantly emphasises local engagement. By working with community leaders, CIDSEL ensures its efforts are globally informed and locally relevant. This collaboration tailors solutions that resonate with each region’s specific cultural, economic, and social contexts, fostering strong, sustainable partnerships.
A Movement For A Better World
CIDSEL offers multiple avenues for involvement, inviting individuals to contribute to its mission and join the conversation on sustainable development. Tune in to their podcasts ‘Getting to Better Together’ and ‘Life Inspired by Poetry’ on Spotify. CIDSEL always looks for inspiring guests, engaging hosts, and subscribers eager to learn about their goals. There is an opportunity to participate in CIDSEL’s quarterly community conversations, where you can help curate a better future through learning and sharing insights. Serve in an advisory capacity on one of CIDSEL’s engagement committees, contributing your knowledge and expertise.
CIDSEL is a development agency at the University of the Sunshine Coast; it’s a movement towards a better world. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to give back, a local business eager to engage with global development, or simply someone passionate about making a difference, CIDSEL welcomes your involvement. Together, we can build better futures for generations to come.
Your expertise and commitment can help CIDSEL tackle complex development challenges. By contributing your skills, knowledge, and passion, you can assist in crafting innovative and sustainable solutions.
Engaging with CIDSEL also connects you with the vibrant community at the University of Sunshine Coast. This connection allows you to collaborate with academic experts, access cutting-edge research, and participate in initiatives beyond traditional classroom settings. As part of the university’s community, you can contribute to a dynamic environment that values continuous learning and global impact.
Join CIDSEL and be part of a solution for social impact. Let’s create a world where sustainable development and social entrepreneurship are the norms, not the exceptions. Your expertise, passion, and commitment can help us chart a future where everyone can thrive.
For more information and to get involved, visit the website or connect with CIDSEL on social media. Together, let’s make a difference.
www.usc.edu.au/community/unisc-cidsel
Click on the Spotify link to listen to the podcast ‘Getting to Better Together.’
https://open.spotify.com/show/5x513bcl1OlboMPOeirm6H?si=6fc99aa7e8cd4c6d
Click on the Spotify link to listen to the podcast ‘Life Inspired by Poetry.’ https://open.spotify.com/show/0nP4ZptY8Yo5cMmQlQhjgL?si=1d6fb7006a894d34
