Dr. Geetanjali Gill, Secretary of State for International Development Randeep Sarai, and Susan Mide Kiss stand together following UFV’s President’s Leadership Lecture. (Image Credit: UFV)

By Alyssa Conti

Global Leadership

UFV students join Secretary of State in global change discussion panel

Feb 28, 2026 | 12:56 PM

ABBOTSFORD — Global Development students and alumni have recently gathered to learn more about global leadership in uncertain times without leaving the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV). 

Randeep Sarai, secretary of state for international development, attended the school’s “Changemaking in Complex Times — Why Global Engagement Matters” panel to highlight the importance of collaboration among government, academia and society in tackling complex global challenges.

“Addressing today’s global challenges requires partnership and collaboration,” said Sarai. “Universities such as UFV are vital in preparing students to think critically and act responsibly in an interconnected world.” 

Panellists highlighted the role of education in fostering shared responsibility, away from “siloed” approaches to global issues. 

“Creating spaces where students can engage directly with policymakers and community partners is essential,” said Dr. Geetanjali Gill, director of UFV’s School of Social Justice and Global Stewardship. “Global engagement is not abstract — it is grounded in dialogue, shared learning, and a commitment to working across borders and sectors.” 

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The panel was held last week as part of the President’s Leadership Lecture Series at the UFV.