To mark the 20th anniversary of the School of Conflict Studies at Saint-Paul University, we are pleased to announce the Graduate Student Symposium, a key part of this milestone celebration. This symposium will highlight the dynamic and evolving field of conflict studies, with a special focus on the current research inquiries shaping the future of the discipline. The event will take place on November 15, 2024 in a hybrid format, and invites contributions from both later-year undergraduate and graduate students.

What is a Graduate Student Symposium?

A Graduate Student Symposium is an academic gathering where students showcase ongoing or completed research projects receiving feedback from peers and faculty. Feedback will be constructive, focusing on growth and providing actionable insights to help you refine your work. It offers participants the opportunity to:

•  Present Research: Showcase ongoing or completed research projects, receiving feedback from peers and faculty.
• Engage in Dialogue: Discuss current trends and challenges in conflict studies with fellow students and academic leaders.
• Develop Presentation Skills: Gain experience in public speaking, academic argumentation, and responding to questions in a formal setting.
• Network with Peers: Build connections with fellow students, researchers, and faculty members, fostering potential collaborations.

This symposium not only celebrates the present work of students but also connects it to the broader trajectory of conflict studies, both reflecting on past achievements and envisioning future innovations in the field.

An optional pre-symposium workshop will be offered to help students refine their presentation skills and receive tips for managing public speaking anxiety. This session will cover structuring presentations, handling Q&A, and strategies to build confidence when speaking to an audience.

Symposium Theme: Spotlight on Present Student Research in Conflict Studies

The theme for this year’s symposium is “Spotlight on Present Student Research in Conflict Studies.” Students are invited to submit abstracts that explore a wide range of topics within the field of conflict studies, including but not limited to:

•    Peacebuilding and conflict transformation
•    Human rights and justice
•    Gender and conflict
•    Environmental conflict and climate justice
•    Political violence and terrorism
•    Post-conflict reconciliation and recovery
•    Migration, identity, and security

This theme offers a broad canvas for students to contribute to the conversation on how conflict is understood, managed, and resolved in today’s world.

Call for Abstracts

We invite later-year undergraduate and graduate students to submit their research for presentation at the symposium. Presentations should reflect the student’s original research and align with the symposium theme. Each presentation will be given a 20-minute time slot, followed by a discussion period.

Past Symposium Highlights

Previous symposiums have provided valuable platforms for students to present on a wide range of topics. For example:

In 2022, the theme was “Innovative, Restorative & Transformative Shifts in Conflict Studies”, with papers covering environmental conflict, gender, and justice frameworks.

The 2021 symposium, focused on “Contemporary Challenges in Conflict Studies,” explored emerging dimensions of conflict and the development of conflict studies as an academic discipline.

These annual symposiums have enriched the academic experience at Saint-Paul University, offering a space for critical reflection and growth in conflict studies.

Organizing Committee

This year’s symposium is being organized by a dedicated PhD committee including Shannon Gallagher, Katrina Leclerc, and Peace Mukazi Ndekezi. The team is committed to ensuring that this year’s symposium is an engaging and enriching experience for all participants.

Join Us!

We encourage all eligible students to take part in this exciting opportunity to present your work, engage in critical discussions, and celebrate the 20th anniversary of the School of Conflict Studies. Your research can contribute to shaping the future of this vital field.