Educación superior, etnia y cultura: reflexiones sobre una universidad intercultural indígena para Michoacán

Abstract

This paper analyses problems and issues generated by the proposal to create the Indigenous Intercultural University of Michoacán, (UIIM) México.

It discusses the role of a university as a learning community and promoter of knowledge. It also considers the intellectual, affective, social, cultural, moral and professional development of all participants . It is recommended that a diversity of learning, research, dissemination and management activities are practiced. The author emphasises the responsibility of the university in being a critical and autonomous institution, developing new values and attitudes, generating creative and flexible processes for curriculum development, and utilising adequate information technology in order to promote effective distance learning.

Justification for the foundation of the UIIM is discussed. The policy of many countries in favouring education as the main path to development is inconsistent in that those same countries deny educational opportunities to the more needy individuals and social groups. At best, in the case of indigenous communities, they are offered ways to be assimilated into the dominant culture. UIIM would systematise and utilise indigenous knowledge now unrecorded and dispersed.

Purposes, functions and activities for UIIM are considered, as well as some characteristics for the courses of study, both undergraduate and graduate, counselling and tutorial systems. Strategies and tasks are suggested to develop the project.