Born as an expression of the Focolare Movement, the Sophia University Institute in Loppiano (Florence in Italy) is going to launch an academic course in “relational sustainability”, in partnership with the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
Following the international congress “Relational Sustainability. The contribution of the natural and human sciences to a new synthesis of personal, ecological, social, and economic dimensions” held from 18 to 20 October 2024, with the participation of the Laudato Si’ Movement, it was made clear that “sustainability is a complex issue involving social, economic, cultural and natural structures. Despite technological advances, humanity still fails to sustainably manage the Earth’s resources. The Paris Agreement and European commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are falling short of their goals. Relational sustainability addresses these challenges by fostering constructive relationships between people, the environment, society, and the economy”.
Therefore, this course aims to promote a transdisciplinary dialogue to rejuvenate the relationship between the natural sciences and the humanities to understand complex systems and human needs, focusing on the importance of a comprehensive education system that promotes holistic development and respects human resources and natural elements, as well as exploring how to fight the “culture of waste” and the need for a humanized competitive environment.
The course is addressed to students, teachers, professionals, operators in the environment and ecology sector focusing on the contribution of natural and human sciences to a new synthesis of personal, environmental, social and economic dimensions.
Under the auspices of Amsterdam Centre for Religion and Sustainable Development, Council of Churches in the Netherlands, EcoOne, Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, Laudato Si’ Action Platform, Laudato Si’ Research Institute, New Humanity ONG, Laudato Si’ Movement, the course will be held in English, targeting 30 people (from all Europe).
Short info follows:
- Starting dates: 5 February 2025
- 18 academic hours online (3 hours per week for 6 weeks).
- Conclusion (optional) in Assisi, 22-23 March 2025
- Saturday morning: arrivals
- Saturday afternoon: 3 academic hours (seminar activities, also online)
- Sunday morning: 3 academic hours (Franciscan pilgrimage, in presence only)
- Sunday afternoon: departures
More info will be posted on the website of the University Sophia at this link https://www.sophiauniversity.org/en/