Graffiti at Cairo’s Tahrir Square

I would like to start this entry with a quote I found on the net written by LindsayT: “Some have used the can to disperse their message while others use their art.” In other words, some use spray paint for vandalism and some others to convey a message. Better still, some see it a form of disruption and others as a manifestation of creative talent. This idea was written in regard to graffiti work performed in Egypt in the second half of 2011.

The previous year was characterized by many revolutions that, in most cases, generated change despite their difficult course. Egypt’s activity was at times peaceful, at times volatile. A very genuine uprising whose epicentre was Cairo’s Tahrir Square. It inspired many, including women and men of all ages. Chronologically, Egypt followed similar revolts in Tunisia and served as a catalyst for other ongoing movements in the Middle East. Along with the spirit of change and the call for reform, “revolutionary” art sprung up on the streets and walls. Here is a selection of the most notable works I could have access to (courtesy of SP).

I would like to end this piece, with another quote from online Al Arabiya News: “In most countries, street graffiti is painted over almost immediately as it is technically a work of vandalism and authorities are quick to remove images that it deems as offensive. Graffiti in Egypt and Tunisia will probably suffer the same fate, but the art form is here to stay – until it finds its next canvas.”

True, these images might disappear, but not the spirit that inspired them. More photos can be found at UK’s Guardian site.

Durham College seeking a Director of International

Durham College seeks a proven leader to lead its team of dynamic professionals in the Office of International Education. Reporting to the vice-president of Finance and chief financial officer, the director will be accountable for providing strategic and operational direction and action for the full spectrum of activities associated with international education and international business development at Durham College. This includes recruitment; international mobility; internationalization of the college; and the development of new revenue-generating opportunities, partnerships and business initiatives that will contribute to the continued growth of the college. 

The director will manage the operational planning and effective utilization of all available resources (physical, human and financial) to ensure the college’s mandate and strategic direction are successfully understood and implemented internally and globally. The incumbent will be accountable for overseeing the co-ordinated approach of a broad-range of interrelated, college-wide programs and services as they apply to academic programming for international students including their cultural, social, and academic well-being. He/she will also be responsible for the development and writing of contracts related to international initiatives; the co-ordination of quality initiatives; and overviewing curriculum being delivered by partnering institutions off-shore. 

The director of International Education will act as an invaluable source of international market intelligence including being accountable for expert advisory services to the senior management team on a wide range of planning issues for the future direction of international education. Responsible for the development and implementation of Strategic Enrolment Management initiatives as they affect international business development, the incumbent will represent Durham College with provincial, national and international organizations; on committees and agencies; and at conferences as required. 

A strong communicator with the ability to deal with a wide range of individuals with diverse backgrounds, the incumbent should have proven management experience as a leader and visionary in the international arena. 

Candidates must possess an undergraduate degree and five years of experience as a minimum or the equivalent education and experience in a senior leadership capacity involving significant complexity and scope within an academic or entrepreneurial enterprise. Leadership experience; in-depth understanding of post-secondary education; international; and entrepreneurial experience are assets. Overseas travel is required throughout the year. 

Interested candidates may submit a resumé to jobs@durhamcollege.ca, quoting competition number AD12-01 by 4:00 pm on January 9, 2012.