Teachers for Peace welcomes the news that the ACT government has decided not to facilitate student participation in Northrop Grumman’s Space Camp.
In documents obtained by the Canberra Times, internal advice shows that considerable community objection to the participation of weapons companies in education was key in the decision.
The Canberra Times quotes officials as recognising that there were negative “PR implications” for association with the weapons giant.
Direct lobbying to the Minister – such as that from Teachers for Peace, Medical Association for Prevention of War, teacher unions, and others – was also cited as a factor.
Importantly, the Times quoted a reference to “sponsorship that does not align with the Directorate’s Corporate Sponsorship Policy or values”. The ACT education department’s own policies do not permit industries involved with armaments to advertise to children in school; the ACT has long been in breach of this policy through continued facilitation of children’s participation in programs sponsored by weapons companies.
Weapons companies’ educational programs are a form of advertising, and aim to generate positive brand association and social licence for an industry that profits from human suffering around the world. It should be the norm – not the exception – for state education departments to refuse to participate in programs associated with weapons companies.
We urge other education departments to swiftly update policy and practice on this issue.
