Professor Bronwyn Fredericks, CQUniversity's Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Engagement) and BMA Chair in Indigenous Engagement was invited to speak at the recent Transforming Indigenous Education Conference.

The conference held at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi: Indigenous-University, New Zealand sought to stimulate discussion and debate around 'what is transforming for Indigenous people?' and 'how can we can transform education for Indigenous peoples?'.

Prof Bronwyn Fredericks (centre) with Dr Stephanie Gilbert and Leanne Holt (the Wollotuka Institute, University of Newcastle).

Some of the sessions focused on models of interventions; Indigenous research; change; and 'what's innovative?'. Participants discussed 'what is meant by excellence in Indigenous education?' and 'how can institutions focus on Indigenous development?'.

It was recognised that institutions need to work at how they offer career-focused programs shaped by the needs of business and industry while at the same time working to meet the developmental aspirations of Indigenous people. This includes finding innovative ways to deliver programs that reach into Indigenous communities and build capabilities at the community level.

"Transformative approaches have proved successful in demonstrating educational achievement while encouraging and supporting Indigenous specific community development and growth," Prof Fredericks said.

Dr Bob Morgan (The Wollotuka Institute) speaking on behalf of the Australian delegation at the start of the conference.

Professor Fredericks was part of the opening panel with Professor Linda Tuhiwai Smith, Pro Vice-Chancellor Maori, University of Waikato, New Zealand, and Professor Rockne Freitas, Vice-President for Student Affairs and University/Community Relations, University of Hawaii. They were asked to speak to Strategies for Indigenous Higher Education.

Other speakers from Australia included Professor Rob Tierney, Dean of Education, University of Sydney, and Dr Bob Morgan and Dr John Lester from The Wollotuka Institute, University of Newcastle. Other speakers came from the USA, Canada and New Zealand.

In the evening, the conference participants enjoyed a performance by the Bachelor of Māori Performing Arts Haka Theatre students at Te Mānuka Tutahi Marae (Meeting House). The performance centred on youth suicide; a concern for Indigenous peoples across the world.

Bachelor of Mâori Performing Arts students performing at the conference 
Bachelor of Mâori Performing Arts students performing at the conference