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Federal discussions about expansion
10 October 2009
Every year about this time we have a visit from Federal Government officials to analyse the progress of the University.
Yesterday a larger group than usual visited us. The officials were this time from two departments, one dealing principally with the expansion of the tertiary education sector, the other concerned with science, research and innovation.
The agenda for this crucially important meeting addressed the strategic directions for USC, the reform for research and research training, the reform agenda for teaching and learning, the availability of monies for new buildings, and our regional role, particularly with the growth of Sippy Downs town centre and the future University Hospital.
Whilst the way in which USC will eventually benefit from the proposed reforms will not be clear for some time, with the new system commencing fully only in 2012, it is clear that USC is poised for further substantial growth of teaching, research and engagement capacity.
In fact, it is one of the best positioned universities in the country to take advantage of the ‘social inclusion’ reforms, that is, the deliberate moves by Government to increase the numbers of ‘low SES’ and ‘first-in-family’ students into the sector.
We are in a high-growth region but where university participation rates still lag behind state and national rates. The very groups that the Government is targeting are heavily represented on the Coast.
But working with schools to encourage greater representation of talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds will take a great deal of work and cooperation. Similarly, levels of support to enhance confidence and self-belief amongst students whilst at University will also be demanding but certainly worthwhile, and certainly also of benefit to students over the lifespan of their careers.
We have put a compelling case to the Government authorities for substantial support and we always get a sympathetic hearing.
The growth of at least 10 percent per year, as it has been to date, will continue or be surpassed. Accompanying that growth will be an unswerving focus on a quality university education.
A new sectoral environment lies ahead and USC is poised to continue its trajectory to be one of the regional leaders of this century.
Professor Paul Thomas AM is Vice-Chancellor and President at the University of the Sunshine Coast.