CDU launches 2021-26 Strategic Plan focused on growing courses, students, financial stability and more

Charles Darwin University has set seven major goals to propel the institution into the future in its new 2021-26 Strategic Plan.

EXPANDING course offerings across the NT, growing research capability and improving First Nations student access, participation and success are some of the key goals in Charles Darwin University’s new 2021-26 Strategic Plan.

The plan, to be launched on Wednesday by CDU Vice-Chancellor Scott Bowman, maps out the vision for the university over the next five years through seven goals:

ENHANCING delivery and opportunities in regional, rural and remote training and education;

BECOMING the most recognised university for Australian First Nations training, education and research;

ADVANCING research capacity and capability;

GROWING CDU’s reach and impact across the Territory, Australia and beyond;

PRIORITISING environmental and organisational sustainability;

CREATING a positive student experience; and

BECOMING an employer of choice where staff feel supported and happy.

Prof Bowman said the plan was the result of significant consultation with community, First Nations people and business and would bring together all layers of government.

“We have fantastic opportunities ahead to secure a future that will lead us to be Australia’s most connected university through making courageous decisions and delivering training, education and research that matters to the people of the Northern Territory,” Prof Bowman said.

“It’s been a challenging year for the international education sector. The plan will help us to address the impacts of the pandemic on our communities and guide us in supporting a post-pandemic recovery.

“The plan is an example of how by collaboratively working together across all levels of government, industry and community, we can realise our new five-year vision.”

Key performance indicators show CDU aimed to increase domestic enrolments to 32,000 by 2026 from 26,962 students currently.

CDU set an improvement target of 75 per cent in unit success rates for First Nations higher education students by 2026, compared with the current rate of 61 per cent.

It also aimed to have a 3.5 per cent surplus by 2026, with the university currently breaking even.