Plans for a local university study hub are rapidly advancing, as the Southern Downs Regional Council works closely with key industry stakeholders to craft a comprehensive proposal aimed at securing funding from the Commonwealth Government for a satellite educational facility.
Discussions are in full swing with educational and community organisations across the region, and the Council is in the final stages of shaping the proposal with the assistance of Country Universities Centre.
Chair of the initiative’s Development Committee, Mayor Vic Pennisi said council was committed to establishing educational pathways which ensured the region’s tertiary students had access to the right resources to complete their studies locally.
“Distance should not be an obstacle to higher learning, and creating the right pathways for accessible education greatly enhances a community’s liveability and suitability,” Cr Pennisi said.
He highlighted the significance of university study hubs, which provide infrastructure and academic support, enabling students to live and study locally without the need for relocation.
The council is strategically engaging with stakeholders to build a proposal for a dedicated and well-equipped space to keep students within the region.
“We are confident that a successful bid will bridge the gap for our promising students as they transition to university and other advanced education,“ Cr Pennisi said.
“The support from all the region’s high schools, industry and community groups, and major employers is encouraging.
“The enthusiasm of our community to support this bid has been fantastic as we share the united vision to bolster our students and offer local educational solutions.“
He emphasised the importance of continued community support for the proposal’s success, recognising the involvement of key stakeholders in building a robust proposal.
University study hubs play a crucial role in supporting individuals entering or already enrolled in tertiary education from any institution. Typically, these hubs offer study and meeting spaces, as well as a wide range of student support and pastoral care.
The program, initiated in 2018, has seen success with 34 centres established across Australia. The latest call for applications aims to fund 20 new sites for 2024 and 2025, with competition expected to be fierce for the Commonwealth Department of Education funding.
The collaborative efforts of the Southern Downs Regional Council, in partnership with various stakeholders, position the region favourably to secure support for a local university study hub, contributing to the growth and development of accessible education in the community.
