International Projects

Long-Term Commitments: MSU and the World after 9-11

Excerpts from the 2002 State of the University Address by MSU President Peter McPherson

At the end of the Cold War some people felt we no longer needed to be internationally involved. In the aftermath of September 11, it is clear that we have to be involved. We know that we cannot continue to live in comfort and security while ignoring developing countries. We give in to isolationist tendencies at our peril and at the sacrifice of our institutional values and our humanity.

In the past, this nation's higher education institutions made a great impact in developing countries, and they must do so in the future. Our universities are uniquely qualified for this role. MSU and other land-grant institutions have wonderful histories of international engagement. Recall American universities' widespread involvement in institution building in the post-World War II years. Historically MSU has had long-term trusting relationships with emerging countries such as Nigeria, India, Brazil, and more recently with a number of other countries. Many other land-grant universities have had such relationships.

The essence of our expertise-producing and transmitting knowledge-can contribute immeasurably to addressing so many problems. We are distinguished by our abilities to educate and train people, to help build institutions, and to create and apply technology. Over the years, through extensive engagement, we have come to understand fully what is meant by the old story that teaching people to fish is far better than giving people fish or fishing for them. Ours are the very capabilities that are sorely needed in developing areas.

Our capacity has been enhanced by info-technology and biotechnology. With these tools, it should be possible to do in 10 or 15 years in developing countries what previously took twice as long. . . .

AID and the World Bank are key sources of research funding for universities that are engaged in developing countries. The real test for universities, including MSU, is doing this work in conjunction with more conventional faculty roles and in the face of conventional reward systems. . . .

From our position of strength, I believe that we and other universities across this country should answer the wake up call of September 11 and expand our international engagement. We should make a long-term institutional commitment to use our unique talents and experience to fight poverty and improve the quality of life in developing regions.

At Michigan State University we are trying to find ways to participate effectively in national and international efforts to address difficult problems. I am confident that we will continue to apply our strengths -our intellectual work-to make this world a better place in which to live.