A FORUM will be held in Cairns this Friday to highlight tertiary education opportunities for First Nations individuals, with keynote speakers who are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander CQUniversity alumni.
CQU’s Indigenous Engagement Officer Di Parter is hosting the event, called the Buga Landima-l: Black education through excellence forum.
The forum will feature keynote speakers who are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander alumni from the Far North Region.
Ms Parter said the purpose of the event is to underscore the myriad opportunities tertiary education offers for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, including progression to leadership roles, entrepreneurship, skill development, knowledge enhancement, industry relevance, and professional networking.
“The speakers are all local residents who will share their personal and professional journeys, highlighting the significance of studying and the doors it can open,” she said.
“The alumni will delve into the ‘whys, hows, and whats’ of their educational journeys, showcasing the opportunities that come with a qualification.
“Their insights will inspire our attendees to pursue their own educational goals.”
Additionally, the event will provide information about CQUniversity pathways with expert staff members from Skills for Tertiary Education Preparatory Studies (STEPS) and the Centre for Professional Development (CPD) which hosts a variety of micro-credentials.
The free event is open to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait people interested in tertiary education. For those who are unable to attend the forum will be available to attend online.
“I encourage people of all education levels to attend, including senior high school students,” Ms Parter said.
Ms Parter also leads the Deadly Connections Program, working to engage mature-age Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals in higher education.
The initiative is aimed at fostering participation among mature-age Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals residing in regional, rural, and remote areas.
The Deadly Connections Program falls under the Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program (HEPPP).
Deadly Connections is more than just a program; it’s about empowerment and achievability
CQUniversity Indigenous Engagement Officer Di Parter
“We are dedicated to removing barriers and fostering a sense of possibility within our communities.”
Ms Parter said CQUniversity recognises the geographical and economical challenges faced by those living in remote locations.
“As CQUniversity is a leader in online education, we are able to cater to individuals who prefer to work and study without leaving their communities, making education more accessible,” she said.
“We recognise that flexibility and the right kind of support and access as an online student can make all the difference in an individual’s success.”
Buga Landima-l: Black education through excellence forum will be held at the CQUniversity Cairns campus this Friday, 12 April.
To register for the forum, contact Ms Parter via email at d.parter@cqu.edu.au
Keep up with the latest news in Cairns and the Far North, and check out some of our top stories this week: Healthy start for First Nations children and Rudeness endangers patients, says JCU.
