Photo: Claudia Doman
The University of Canberra (UC) has taken the opportunity presented by Reconciliation Week to launch its third Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) covering the period 2018 to 2020.
Vice-Chancellor and President at UC, Deep Saini said UC’s latest RAP outlined the university’s role in advancing reconciliation and demonstrated a continuing commitment to build just, prosperous and sustainable communities that were respectful of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage.
Professor Saini was presented with a wooden bowl by the Dean of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership and Strategy, Peter Radoll (pictured), which represented UC’s unbreakable commitment to reconciliation.
Professor Saini said the RAP included ambitious targets that involved the input of all members of the UC community.
“The Plan is defined as a Stretch RAP because the University has developed longer-term strategies and established a strong approach towards advancing reconciliation internally,” Professor Saini said.
“It is also working towards defined measurable targets, embedding reconciliation initiatives into ‘business as usual’ practices.”
He said UC would work on a curriculum that embedded Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and pedagogies and improved the cultural awareness of non-Indigenous students.
“It also aims to create opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through enhanced research capacity, employment initiatives and a continued commitment to create an Indigenous-led research institute,” Professor Saini said.
“We are determined to establish the University of Canberra as the institution of choice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and employees,” he said.
