Mandate

YCAR carries out its mandate primarily through research and dissemination of research findings, and also through support for faculty and staff appointments; programs of language, research skills, and other training for graduate students; development of library materials; and fostering of exchanges and linkages with Asian institutions. YCAR cooperates with other institutions, both in Canada and overseas, to improve interchange with government and business and to promote public understanding of Asia and Asian Diasporas and of Canada's many linkages with the region. Its programmes to disseminate research findings include seminars, lectures, workshops, and conferences, in-house publications, as well as administrative support for faculty seeking to publish in international journals and with external publishers. To carry out its commitments to public discussion, outreach and collaborative research, the centre organizes projects and programmes that bring together scholars and non-academics, including representatives of government, business, and community groups.

In addition to engaging in scholarly study, Centre associates may be involved in applied research and a variety of professional practices, such as training and consulting related to Asia and Asian Diasporas. The Centre, as part of its commitment to disseminate knowledge, is committed to facilitating and supporting the scholarship of graduate students working on topics related to Asia and Asian Diasporas.

The Centre shall encompass research on Southeast, South and East Asia as well as Asian Diasporas from all disciplines and faculties. The centre shall also foster thematic research that cuts across disciplinary, faculty, and spatial boundaries. The research of the Centre focuses mainly on the study of modern and contemporary periods, reflecting the strengths of York faculty in this area, although research on pre-modern Asia and pre-modern Asian Diasporas may also be included.

Promoting Equity at York University  

The opening paragraph of the YCAR Constitution states YCAR's commitment to York University policies and procedures, which includes its equity practices. For more information on equity resources at York University, click here.

YCAR strives for the representation and participation of individuals from visible minority groups and women in its activities and governance, including its Executive Committee.

For more information on special services for diverse groups at York University, visit the York Secretariat website. For more information on York's policy on religious observances, click here.