Transforming legal education: Dr Nick Cartwright speaks on anti-racist law education at International HETL Conference
Dr Cartwright’s recent presentation at the HETL 2024 Conference explored how law schools can serve as change agents by implementing anti-racist practices and fostering social justice within academia.
Dr Nick Cartwright, Associate Professor in the School of Law, recently participated in the international Higher Education Teaching and Learning (HETL) 2024 Conference, hosted by Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, South Africa. This international gathering, held from 2–4 October 2024, focused on universities' roles as change agents in society, particularly exploring themes like social innovation and sustainable futures.
Anti-racist law school: Dr Cartwright’s insights on systemic racism in legal education
Nick presented a paper on the anti-racist law school, building on his recent publication for The Law Teacher. His paper drew on Critical Race Theory and legal pedagogy to address how law schools can dismantle systemic racism within academic and professional settings. His presentation aligned with the conference’s broader focus on social justice and equity, as well as higher education’s transformative potential.
Nick’s insights into the intersection of legal education and racial justice sparked lively discussions among delegates. Attendees praised his thoughtful approach, noting the relevance of his arguments to universities worldwide that seek to address structural inequalities in their institutions.
Promoting civic responsibilities and social engagement at universities
Nick also led an interactive workshop on the civic responsibilities of universities, emphasising how institutions must actively engage in addressing racial violence and promoting social responsibility. This workshop resonated with the conference's theme of creating socially engaged and responsive universities that contribute to inclusive and sustainable societies. The workshop emphasised practical steps that institutions could take, particularly in light of global movements demanding racial justice.
Participants remarked on Nick's ability to engage the audience, fostering a collaborative and solution-oriented atmosphere during the workshop. His workshop received positive feedback for its timeliness and applicability, particularly as universities increasingly seek to balance academic goals with civic engagement.
Interactive workshop on civic responsibilities of universities
The 2024 HETL Conference, hosted at Nelson Mandela University’s stunning venue overlooking the Indian Ocean, attracted professionals from across the globe. The overarching theme of social innovation and sustainability resonated deeply with delegates, particularly in the context of South Africa’s history and its continuing fight for equity in education. This was the first time the HETL conference had been hosted on the African continent and Nick also enjoyed encountering zebra on the University campus, which is part of a National Park.
About Dr Nick Cartwright
Nick is also the Director for Student Success and the School Academic Leaf for Inclusive Pedagogy (SALIP). He is part of the Centre for Innovation and Research in Legal Education and the Centre for Law and Social Justice.
Learn more about the research and expertise at the School of Law here.
