The University of New England’s long-standing commitment to reconciliation has been recognised in the endorsement of its inaugural Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) by Reconciliation Australia this month.
Today, there are 967 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students studying with UNE, most of whom followed alternative pathways into university study. As at 31 March 2020, 33 staff identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, including eight academics.
Developed with the support and assistance of Reconciliation Australia, the inaugural ‘Reflect’ RAP outlines actions and deliverables that support UNE’s commitment to equitable access to higher education regardless of circumstances.
“The RAP outlines our vision for reconciliation, but is also an action plan that sets out how we will continue to work side-by-side with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff and community members,” Vice-Chancellor and CEO, Professor Brigid Heywood said.
“Work on the plan began in 2018, and the following year, a RAP Working Group that included internal and external representatives from local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities was established. UNE acknowledges the work of its Indigenous Engagement Committee members in nurturing the process. The final RAP is the culmination of about two years of work and incorporates extensive and diverse consultation."
“I’m therefore confident that the plan acknowledges the strengths and aspirations of our local communities and provides us with firm foundation on which to advance reconciliation at UNE.”
Implementation of the plan will focus on UNE’s participation in reconciliation activities across three pillars: Relationships, Respect and Opportunity, while the achievement of deliverables will provide a blueprint for initiatives in successive RAPs.
“An inaugural RAP is usually reflective in nature. As we implement the plan, we will deepen our understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, knowledges and cultures to create an environment that is truly inclusive and practical in acknowledging First Peoples' perspectives and experiences.
“To ensure the plan remains relevant, and to sustain trust in UNE's intentions, we will implement a continuous review process to ensure that future plans that are meaningful, mutually beneficial and sustainable for the university.”
As a regional university, established on the country of the Anaiwan people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the University stands, UNE has long been committed to supporting the educational, cultural and social advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
A key embodiment of this support was reflected in the establishment of the Oorala Aboriginal Centre in 1986. Oorala supports the unique requirements of Aboriginal people looking to undertake higher education through preparatory pathways, mentoring and other development initiatives.
“Our first RAP draws on many aspects of our engagement model and emphasises UNE's ongoing commitment to reconciliation. We all have a part to play in making it work, and UNE management is keen to work together with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, students and communities to build on past achievements.”
More on UNE's RAP webpage
