The University of New England’s (UNE) Council met in Tamworth on Friday to discuss next steps in UNE’s commitment to creating a physical presence in Tamworth.
The University Council members oversee the operation of UNE for the benefit of students, staff, academic community and the wider community. Council includes members of the local and metropolitan business community, staff, students and local community members.
UNE Vice-Chancellor Professor Brigid Heywood said the UNE Council were motivated to visit Tamworth to see the locations and spaces where UNE is operating and to meet the community and business leaders driving the UNE Tamworth project.
“I am proud to host the full UNE Council in Tamworth today to give them the opportunity to understand the strength of community support for this project and to view some of the sites from which UNE is already offering courses to Tamworth based students,” Professor Heywood said.
“Council members had had the opportunity to meet business leaders and members of the Tamworth University Reference Group to understand the critical importance of establishing a university presence in Tamworth.
“Discussion have also touched on UNE’s contribution to the wider region via a program of research that supports Tamworth’s economic development plans, including into sustainable water resources.”
Professor Heywood said the next major milestone for UNE Tamworth is to focus on building workforce capacity through the introduction of industry-specific courses developed with extensive consultation with Tamworth business representatives.
“Consultation into the requirements of the creative industries sector took place in May and early June will see representatives from industry and UNE meeting to discuss the workforce and training requirements of the equine industry, such as events and animal husbandry.
“The objectives of UNE Tamworth have not changed, and we are committed to delivering education that meets Tamworth industry requirements and making a university education accessible and relevant to Tamworth.
“We have a vision for tertiary education provision in Tamworth and the wider region which focuses on partnerships, opportunity and engagement.
“Plans for UNE Tamworth are progressing and UNE, together with the Tamworth University Reference Group, is working closely with all levels of government to progress the release of funds.”
