The University of Canberra has welcomed a $600,000 funding pledge to establish a new program to champion innovation and business initiatives for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In a bid to raise aspirations, boost participation and increase engagement, a dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Entrepreneurs Program would focus on job creation, leadership, creativity and innovation.
Announced today by Federal Labor MP, Andrew Leigh, the funding would meet half the costs of an innovative entrepreneur program for three years, with the university investing the remaining costs should the program be implemented.
“This much-needed program will not only provide access to careers, it will encourage Indigenous people to define their own path, create their own business, employ others inside and outside their community and have an ongoing positive effect on the community,” said Peter Radoll, Dean Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership and Strategy.
Students would work alongside entrepreneurs and community leaders to develop skills and start their own business. The University of Canberra’s integrated workplace learning embeds practical experience into all our degrees. But this program takes that one step further, giving students the tools to be entrepreneurs.
The initiative would complement the incredible range of Indigenous support services already in effect as part of the University’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Strategic Plan 2017–2021.
