18/07/2021
In what can only be described as a bizarre and inexplicable process of reasoning, the University of Western Australia has put forward a proposal for some very radical changes to their Anthropology and Social Science Courses. The relevant part of the proposal states that “it is proposed that the following courses be discontinued
• the Anthropology and Sociology major and associated units
• the Master of Urban and Regional Planning, nested courses and associated units”
Whilst the decision to discontinue these courses is in itself rather strange, it is also farcical that a University with the reputation that this one has, decided that the consultation period for this proposed change would run from 6 July through to 20th July. Why even bother with only a two week consultation period when the change being proposed is as monumental as this one appears to be?
A university located in a state of Australia which boasts the greatest cultural diversity and a First Nations Population that is the most marginalised community in any place in the world, then discontinuing studies into these significant areas of community beggars belief.
In a world that is almost borderless (pre-covid) the one issue that is going to ensure progress towards harmony and mutual respect amongst the world inhabitants (Multiculturalism as a public Policy Position), discontinuing Sociology is a major retrograde step. And removing Anthropological studies into the vast, rich and complex history of First Nations in this country will ensure that there will never be an achievement of equality of status.
As appropriate I disclose that both my degrees are from the University of WA. I have also been involved at this University in other capacities over many years. I am unsure whether I will continue to have the same level of pride in my Alma Mater in the future, if this discontinuance is undertaken.
Yours faithfully
Suresh Rajan