New Education Minister Cameron Dick has backed the concept for a dual-sector institution involving CQUniversity and the Central Queensland Institute of TAFE, during his visit as guest speaker for the University's Rockhampton graduation ceremony.

Speaking on ABC Radio this morning (March 4), Mr Dick said a dual-sector institution would provide clear pathways for students entering the post-secondary sphere of education.

Education Minister Cameron Dick with Vice-Chancellor Professor Scott Bowman during graduation

"That's a great initiative to further streamline post-secondary opportunities for students as well as other residents in Central and regional Queensland and I'll be working with the Minister for Employment, Skills and Mining, Stirling Hinchliffe, to ensure that project continues to proceed," he said.

"I'm a strong supporter of further aligning TAFE with technical education and vocational education with the University here in Central Queensland and will continue to deliver on that important initiative."

During the graduation, Mr Dick commented that he almost felt like a local in Rockhampton since it was the home-town of his wife.

He was pleased to be able to congratulate his father-in-law Rol Oxenham OAM, who accepted an honorary degree of Doctor of the University during the graduation ceremony.