About Changemaking at UFV

Changemaking at UFV

Changemaking is the practice of turning ideas into action. It requires an empathetic understanding of systemic societal issues and a commitment to creative problem-solving. 

We aim to empower students and educators to contribute innovative, evidence-informed solutions to complex problems. Changemaking at UFV is a holistic, action-oriented approach. It helps prepare students to thrive in an unpredictable future, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. By embedding changemaking and social innovation principles into the fabric of the university, UFV positions itself as a leader in addressing contemporary challenges and shaping a more equitable future.

Four guiding principles

Through four guiding principles, UFV fosters a culture of empowerment, decolonization, sustainability, and reciprocity. We strive to prepare students to become active contributors to a future marked by equity, inclusivity, and resilience.

These guiding principles promote an understanding of interconnected systems, and emphasize the need for ethical and evidence-informed decision-making in all changemaking efforts. Criticality, empathy, and systems thinking are key mindsets that shape responsible and effective social innovation.

Changemaking and innovation credentials

UFV's changemaking team, led by the Changemaker Curriculum Developer, is actively exploring options for UFV to offer courses and/or credential offerings on the topic of changemaking and innovation. This curriculum will emphasize action-oriented, real-world learning experiences that empower students to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Teaching Inquiries into Pedagogical Practices fund

The Teaching and Learning Centre (TLC) supports changemaker education at UFV with the Teaching Inquiries into Pedagogical Practices (TIPP) fund. 

This fund is available to instructors engaged with or exploring teaching and learning opportunities that reflect changemaking principles. The fund is designed to transform informal inquiry into practice, and facilitate conversations about how to inspire students to become changemakers through their educational journey at UFV. 

Please see the TLC website for the full description of the TIPP Fund and the application form.