Global Politics Critical Thinking and Authentic University Learning

On 3 April IB Global Politics students had the opportunity to authentically engage with academic judgement and reasoning. Professor Sarah Phillips who lectures on global conflict and development at the University of Sydney addressed Years 11 and 12 Global Politics students and shared her real world experiences studying and visiting countries such as Yemen, Iraq, Turkiye and Somalia. Sarah Phillips’ lecture challenged student critical thinking about the regional dynamics in the Middle East and Horn of Africa. A huge thank you to Christopher Richardson who invited Sarah Phillips to address Santa Sabina students.
Brigida Zagora
Head of HSIE (Humanities and Social Sciences)

Student Reflection

Professor Phillips’ presentation focussed on Somaliland, a breakaway region in Somalia that has developed in a space of isolation from the international community. Professor Phillips’ shared with us the nuances of what it means to quantify development and challenged Eurocentric ideologies pertaining to conflict resolution in a world with stark power inequalities on an international scale. It was such a privilege to hear from Professor Phillips, as she shared personal anecdotes from her time in the Middle East and Africa interviewing locals and government ministers and teaching classes. Professor Phillips’ visit has helped enrich our learning in IB Global Politics. We would like to say a massive thank you to Professor Phillips for sharing her time and wisdom with us!
Bronte Sprotte & Tanisha Chari
Year 12