The University of Melbourne became a certified fair trade university after World Vision Chief Executive Tim Costello and Oxfam Australia’s Executive Director Andrew Hewett helped launch the University of Melbourne‘s accreditation earlier this month as a Fair Trade University.
Accreditation by the Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand (FTAANZ) means the University of Melbourne is committing to stocking Fair Trade tea, coffee, chocolate and clothing, all of which is developed within ethical guidelines.
The system works in partnership with farmers to provide fairer prices, better terms of trade and additional funds for business and community development.
The University of Melbourne‘s move to fair trade was led by two students, presidents of the student Oxfam and World Vision groups Hamish McKenzie and Kerrie Haria Adams.
Ms. Haria Adams said fair trade certification was an obvious way the University of Melbourne could do something good for society. “Universities are known for enacting and encouraging societal change; fair trade certification is a way Melbourne can encourage its staff and students to become informed world citizens,” she said.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Glyn Davis said the accreditation signalled the University of Melbourne community’s fair trade commitment, which fitted with its broader array of actions in learning and teaching, research and engagement.
“Our community is following the lead of several of our students in supporting this initiative. Led by that passion for improvement, we are proud to be called a fair trade university,” he said.
Mr. Costello congratulated the University of Melbourne. “Fair trade empowers consumers to make choices that change lives for the better,” he said.
“It gives millions of people in poor communities the opportunity to participate in the global economy on just terms. For all of us, it underlines the fact that in our everyday lives, we have the power to make ethical decisions.”
It’s so true! Having the University of Melbourne go fair trade showcases its forward-thinking ways, which is why it’s so well known worldwide. Congratulations to the University of Melbourne!
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Next month, we plan to profile the University of Melbourne Veterinary School. Stay tuned!
