Social Justice and Inclusive Education in Holy Cross Elite Institutions in Bangladesh: Rhetoric and Reality

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 1:45 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Comparative Perspectives on the Contexts and Possibilities of Religious Education (Table 6)

Abstract

The paper investigates the implementation of the Catholic Church's concept of social justice and inclusive education within the elite institutions of the Congregation of Holy Cross in Bangladesh. The research employs a qualitative multi-site case study approach, utilizing interviews with Holy Cross missionaries involved in teaching and administration. Findings reveal that while these institutions express commitments to social justice, the practical implementation falls short. Although the institutions attempt to provide extra support for marginalized students, a disparity exists between their intentions and the reality. The colleges maintain strict academic standards to uphold their reputation, contributing to the exclusion of certain groups. This study highlights the discrepancy between the intended principles of social justice and inclusive education and their practical application.

Author

• Md Shaikh Farid, University of Dhaka