The University of Wollongong (UOW) has secured a more than $500,000 investment from CSIRO to enable more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to pursue a future in STEM.
The investment is part of the CSIRO Indigenous STEM Scholarship, which was first established in 2019 with a $30,000 gift intended to support two Indigenous STEM students throughout their studies.
As part of the scholarship, one student will be provided with $5,000 each year for the duration of their degree.
Professor Patricia Davidson, vice-chancellor and president at UOW, said the partnership between UOW and CSIRO would foster the next generation of Indigenous talent in STEM.
“The CSIRO scholarships will enable students to explore and expand on their interests in STEM, fields that are vital to the future of our communities, our economy and our nation, without fear of financial stress,” said Professor Davidson. “This significant investment demonstrates the true power of philanthropy, by enriching the lives of Indigenous students and setting them up for a bright and prosperous future.”
Dr Chris Bourke, a Gamillaroi man and the director of Indigenous Science and Engagement at CSIRO, said the agency was delighted to provide practical support to nurture the next generation of Indigenous STEM students.
“Growing an Indigenous STEM pipeline will enable the science and technology sector, and CSIRO in particular, to engage with Indigenous talent, embed Indigenous knowledge and expertise and to foster thriving careers in science and research for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” Bourke said.
“These scholarships are a very practical step because we know that adequate financial support for Indigenous university students is a key factor to overcoming barriers to entry and success in higher education.”
“Continued partnerships and commitments through scholarships create very real opportunities. They connect students with ongoing projects and research that have a direct effect on our Country, our People and ultimately our future. This investment in our students sends a message that our knowledge and voices are essential in STEM developments,” said Jaymee Beveridge, vice president and director of Woolyungah Indigenous Centre at UOW.
