The University of the Sunshine Coast is set to welcome hundreds of academics, scholars and community members to the 10th Annual Indigenous Education Symposium on Saturday 15 October.

The event, with a theme of Collaborating with Community, will discuss recent successes and future strategies to increase the capacity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through education.

The day will feature a keynote address from James Cook University’s Professor Martin Nakata, who is JCU’s Pro Vice Chancellor – Indigenous Education and Strategy, and was the first Torres Strait Islander to graduate with a PhD.

USC’s Pro Vice-Chancellor (Students) Professor Karen Nelson will also attend the Symposium.

Media are welcome to attend the symposium from 9.30am to 4pm at USC’s Sippy Downs campus, with the best time for interviews, photos/filming at noon.

USC Head of Indigenous Services Dr Keane Wheeler said the symposium was a chance for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, education professionals and community members to discuss the path ahead in Indigenous learning and teaching.

“This year’s event will focus on how partnerships with the community can help ensure the meaningful empowerment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” Dr Wheeler said.
 
“2016 marks the 10th year that USC has run this Symposium, and we’ve been delighted to see the ongoing level of participation from both USC students and staff and the wider community.”

The day will feature an address by former Reconciliation Australia CEO Leah Armstrong, as well as break-out workshops and opportunities for participants to network.

The symposium is free and morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea refreshments will be provided, but registrations are essential at www.usc.edu.au/Indigenous.

For more information contact USC’s Buranga Centre on 5456 5889 or email IndigenousServices@usc.edu.au.

— Gen Kennedy