Pursuing a partnership with University of Canberra
Goulburn Mulwaree Council, business
representatives, teachers and community leaders met with the University of
Canberra on Tuesday in the Council Chambers.
The University’s delegation included
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Deep Saini, Associated Vice-President
Innovation and Strategic Initiatives Victor Pantano and Senior Business Manager
Eve Martin; a strong sign of support for the region from University of
Canberra.
The aim of the meeting was to explore
the possibilities of a stronger partnership between the University and the
Goulburn Mulwaree region. The Goulburn University Steering Committee also
attended the meet, and provided an update on the proposal.
General Manager Warwick Bennett felt the
meeting was a great first step. “It was fantastic to have teachers, business
and community leaders involved in the meeting, which was very positive. I’d
like to thank the University of Canberra for their time and the open
discussions.”
Guy Milson, chair of the Goulburn
University Centre steering committee, provided an update on the project
proposal. “We have recently had some very productive discussions with the Board
of Directors for Country Universities Centres, who are excited about the
possibility of a centre in Goulburn. We now need to incorporate as an
organisation, and formalise our Board of Directors. Alongside this we are
beginning the proposal which will outline how we intend to establish the
Goulburn University Centre.”
Mayor Bob Kirk, who is also involved in
the Goulburn University Centre proposal, believes this is the key to higher
education in the region. “I believe the supported learning model that a
University Centre would offer is the answer for Goulburn Mulwaree. Strong
partner universities are important within this model, and I think a logical
step is to partner with the University of Canberra who provide fantastic online
options.”
Professor Deep Saini said: “We are
delighted to continue exploring ways to collaborate in education and other
initiatives throughout the region.”
The ‘supported learning’ model engages
students in study via online education through an Australian University. A
centre would provide support through the provision of facilities, technology
and staff, with the opportunity for partnerships with Universities who are able
to provide enhanced learning services such as video conference tutorials.