About the Matariki Global Citizenship Programme

The Matariki Global Citizenship Programme formed an important chapter in the Network’s history. While it is not currently active, this page is retained to acknowledge its contribution and the shared values that continue to underpin Matariki collaboration. The Network may return to or reframe work in this area in future, as priorities and contexts evolve

The Matariki Global Citizenship Programme was developed as a Network initiative that explored the role of universities in educating global citizens and responding to complex global challenges.

Global citizenship is understood as a contested and evolving concept, requiring critical reflection and dialogue. The programme sought to strengthen Matariki partner universities’ engagement with global citizenship and to support shared learning across the Network.

Launched in April 2016 with an international workshop at Uppsala University, the programme brought together staff and students from across the Network to explore ideas, share practice, and collaboratively shape the programme’s direction. It subsequently supported a range of collaborative activities in education, research and engagement, both in person and online.

The Global Citizenship Programme operated as an umbrella for multi‑institutional initiatives, connecting people and projects within and beyond the university context.

Programme strands:

The programme’s work was guided by three interlinked strands, developed through dialogue among staff and students across the Network.

Empowering Learners focused on students as active participants and co‑creators in their education, supporting opportunities for student–staff partnership and shared learning.

Community Engagement emphasised place‑based and community‑centred approaches, encouraging engagement with communities locally and internationally, and recognising the importance of social and environmental responsibility.

Creating Spaces for Dialogue centred on fostering open, inclusive and critical conversations around global citizenship, responding to the complexities and diversity of global perspectives.