CQUni represented at Indigenous Knowledges Symposium
Published on 02 May, 2013
CQUniversity was represented in the line-up of presentations at the Indigenous Knowledges Symposium recently held at Charles Darwin University.
Professor Bronwyn Fredericks, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement) and BMA Chair in Indigenous Engagement was invited to provide a presentation at the Symposium. Her presentation titled ‘Time for a Change in Direction: Using Indigenous Knowledges as the Driving Force for Change' was joined by presentations by Professors Pat Dudgeon (University of Western Australia); Irene Watson (University of South Australia); Steve Larkin (CDU); and numerous other Indigenous Elders and education leaders.
Indigenous knowledges were the central focus of real-life case studies of knowledge, and at the heart of academic theorising within several disciplines discussed. Indigenous knowledges extend back into history and are also part of the everyday in contemporary society. The Symposium offered the opportunity to engage with Elders, leaders, scholars, students, and the wider community in ways that enabled debate, questions, the airing of points of view, and the development of understandings on issues relating to Indigenous knowledges.
The presentation by Associate Prof Karen Martin (Griffith University) - who spoke about ways of constructing, conceptualising and representing Aboriginal knowledges within education environments - was inspiring. Another highlight was Professor Ngahuia Te Awekotuku (Universiy of Waikato) who discussed how Maori have asserted their own imaginings in the academy.
Prof Fredericks additionally spent time with Prof Steve Larkin, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, and Director, Australian Centre for Indigenous Knowledges and Education at Charles Darwin University. Prof Larkin was the first person in such a role in Australia in 2009. Prof Fredericks has invited Prof Larkin to visit CQUniversity later in the year or in 2014.
The Symposium was a result of a joint partnership between Charles Darwin University (CDU) and the Northern Territory Government. Prof Fredericks was a guest of CDU.
The Elders panel 
Prof Fredericks with Dr Krystal Williams from Royal Darwin Hospital