Nurturing democracy through education

Universities must ensure that the students are taught not only with the expertise from the specific study field, but, as equally important, these young future professionals should be equipped with the ability and skills to live according to democratic principles in life. Education and the right to be educated are essential for understanding among people. With the advent of globalisation and democratisation of societies, it should be recognized that in order to reach this understanding, the universality of human rights should be harmonized with the diversity of cultures. Human rights education must be rooted in the cultural traditions of societies, in accordance with the principles adopted in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which states that: “Everyone has the right to education…and education shall promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial and religious groups”