Engaging regional education
by Emma Masters
UniSA
strengthened its commitment to rural education and communities last
month when it launched its new regional centre in Mount Gambier,
providing full-time and part-time degrees in nursing, social work and
business for 85 local students.
Officially launching the centre, the Federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, said Mount Gambier had developed “a model for the future” and applauded UniSA for “extending the educational horizons for those in regional Australia”.
With such a large number of students studying at the centre in its first year, the community is clearly embracing its collaboration with UniSA, TAFESA and the Federal Government, with many local leaders, students, family and friends echoing the Minister’s sentiments.
The Mayor of the District Council of Grant, Mr Don Pegler, said that the Mount Gambier community was right behind the new centre, describing it as a major coup for the region.
“It is very exciting to have UniSA in the South East,” Pegler said.
“It is great for businesses and industry, keeps young people in the region and means that families who can’t afford to support their children living in the city now have some choices.”
Emma Janeway, an 18-year-old nursing student at the new centre, said she was willing to study in the city but preferred the option of staying home.
“I can stay with my family, continue working and save money,” Janeway said.
She also said it was great to continue studying with friends from high school, an opportunity that is not always possible when young people move to the city to pursue further education.
UniSA’s Director of Regional Engagement, Professor Len Pullin, said the University would be looking to extend its activities in the region to encompass research and greater community engagement with schools, community groups, business and industry organisations.
“We look forward to engaging with the community to help it become increasingly sustainable and capable of fulfilling the goals and aspirations of its people,” Prof Pullin said.