Ethics in higher education in an e-learning environment

Abstract

The Unesco World Declaration on Higher Education for the Twenty-First Century states that education is a fundamental pillar of human rights, democracy, sustainable development and peace and the global world must recognise education for citizenship. There must be a protected space for universities, staff and students to be able to speak out on ethical, cultural and social problems and to play a role in helping identify and address issues that affect the well-being of communities, nations and global society. There is a shift away from a discipline-specific learning paradigm to preparing students for global responsibility. Indigenous knowledge systems is crucial to the success of academic transformation. Students want to be part of a values-driven global future. Academics will need to be ‘re-educated. Sustainable development goal 4 is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.