CQU Bundaberg celebrated last week with the graduation of 3 students from the Tertiary Entry Program (TEP).

TEP is offered by Nulloo Yumbah, the Indigenous Learning, Spirituality and Research Centre at CQU. It is a 15-module program that encourages students to explore and acquire knowledge that will support their academic studies.

The students who graduated were Ashlyn Chapman, Naomi Commandeur and Cristine Brockhurst. Cristine also received the Nulloo Yumbah award for the highest grade point average.

TEP aims to develop the skills and confidence required to successfully complete an undergraduate program.

Throughout the program, students participate in learning experiences which are personally and culturally affirming and are encouraged to transfer skills and knowledge acquired in one subject to another. The program is presented in a way that respects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identity and culture.

CQU Bundaberg Nulloo Yumbah Coordinator, Cheri Yavu-Kama-Harathunian said the students have already indicated they will be returning to CQU to begin their degree programs in Business and Multimedia in 2007.

“The students' learning experience involved them in the exploration of some of the diverse topics offered by TEP such as Introduction to Australian Law, Culture and Learning, Academic Communication, Science and Culture, and Advanced Numeracy Concepts and Applications,” said Cheri Yavu-Kama-Harathunian.

“The TEP program challenges Indigenous students to expand their thinking and to experience academic vitality".

The graduation ceremony was attended by Elder of the Taribelang Bunda, Kackie Jensen; Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Radloff; Acting Head of CQU Bundaberg, Dr Helen Huntly; State MP for Bundaberg, Jack Dempsey; City Council representative Cr Mary Walsh; Coordinator of TEP, Laurel Hunt; CQU Bundaberg Nulloo Yumbah Coordinator, Cheri Yavu-Kama-Harathunian and family and friends.