Where Faith And Thought Collide

20 December 2008

PRIME Minister Kevin Rudd believes that there is more to higher education than simply studying for a job.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by member for Blaxland, Jason Clare, to Campion College, the Prime Minister said a liberal arts education gave students the chance to develop themselves in preparation for a career, before they embarked on one.

"Vocational training remains very important. But there's a strong argument that students benefit from a broader education before they choose a specific career," Mr Clare said.

"In the long run, a liberal arts education may even prove the best preparation for the jobs of the future."

Mr Clare was a last-minute stand-in for the Prime Minister, who was unable to attend the inaugural graduation ceremony of Australia's only Catholic liberal arts college because of a parliamentary sitting extension. The ceremony was held at the University of Sydney.

Mr Rudd's speech went on to say: "There's a strong argument that this vocational emphasis comes too early, especially in a world where people change jobs and careers many times through their lives. Campion College's position on this debate is clear."

Acting president Dr David Daintree said Campion was unashamedly Catholic in its outlook and looked to the enduring link between religious faith and freedom of thought and conscience.

"There is a place in Australia's higher education landscape for a college which openly examines faith and reason, the two planks of Western Christian tradition," he said.

"It is of utmost importance to billions of people around the world.

"In today's world there is a need for rational thought and deep thinking, a place to re-examine priorities and to look at what is important to people in life and work."

He encouraged employers to look at humanities graduates as a source of employees who can think outside the square and who contribute more than just technical expertise.


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