In this insightful interview, Sabrina Ngo, CCEJ Centre Coordinator and a doctoral candidate in the Educational Theory and Practice Curriculum and Pedagogy stream at Simon Fraser University, shares her unique journey into academia, highlighting her non-traditional path from vocational work to pursuing a PhD in educational theory and practice. She discusses the critical role of decolonization in vocational education, emphasizing the historical connections between vocational training and settler colonialism. Sabrina’s recent article, “The Social Role of Vocational Education in Decolonisation,” published in the Journal of Vocational Education and Training, delves into the institutional barriers that hinder decolonizing practices and offers actionable strategies for educators, administrators, and industry leaders. She underscores the importance of addressing systemic racism, classism, and gender-related oppressions within educational institutions. The interview also touches on the resistance faced by educators attempting to decolonize their practices and provides recommendations for fostering a more inclusive and equitable educational environment. Sabrina’s work is a call to action for the broader academic community to engage in meaningful decolonization efforts, ensuring that vocational education serves as a tool for social justice and empowerment.
To listen to the podcast episode, click here