"Another goal is to look to the resources we have and to see how we could do better to plan, in a sense, for the faculty and infrastructure that we will need to study Asia well into the 21st century"
- William Kirby
About this Quote
This quote by William Kirby stresses the strategic planning and resource evaluation necessary to efficiently study Asia in the long-term, especially into the 21st century. Kirby highlights 2 crucial objectives: examining existing resources and enhancing preparation methods for future needs.
First of all, the phrase "aim to the resources we have" recommends a detailed assessment of existing assets. This might involve assessing existing professors, educational programs, financial resources, and physical facilities. The objective here is to get a comprehensive understanding of the present abilities and restraints. By doing so, institutions can figure out how well-equipped they are to provide a robust study of Asia, identifying strengths to build on and weaknesses to resolve.
Secondly, the expression "to see how we could do much better to plan" implies a proactive method to future readiness. This includes tactical insight to prepare for the academic, infrastructural, and professors requires that may arise as interest and requirements for Asian studies expand. Preparation better means not just reacting to current gaps or deficits however also preparing for future trends and needs. This forward-thinking strategy could think about emerging fields within Asian research studies, technological developments in education, and possible geopolitical modifications that might affect the region's significance or the resources available for study.
The mention of "professors and infrastructure" highlights the human and physical capital required for such undertakings. For professors, this suggests recruiting and establishing educators with competence in Asian languages, cultures, histories, and present affairs. For infrastructure, this could include enhancing libraries, digital resources, and facilities that support research study and learning.
In general, Kirby's statement advocates for a well balanced approach, integrating a thorough assessment of present capabilities with a strategic vision for the future. This makes sure that organizations are not just responsive to present educational imperatives but are likewise agile adequate to develop and remain pertinent as academic interests and worldwide dynamics change through the 21st century.
"One has children in the expectation of dying before them. In fact, you want to make damn sure you die before them, just as you plant a tree or build a house knowing, hoping that it will outlive you. That's how the human species has done as well as it has"