Jason Clare announces Regional University Study Hub for East Arnhem

A study hub for East Arnhem will remove ‘massive barriers’ to tertiary education. Here’s how.

Federal Education Minister Jason Clare announces 10 new regional study hubs, including one in the NT. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

A new study hub will bring tertiary education even closer to Territorians living in regional and remote areas.

Federal Education Minister Jason Clare on Monday announced 10 new Regional University Study Hubs across the country – including one in Garrthalala, East Arnhem.

Every regional hub across the nation targets a population where residents are almost half as likely to receive a university degree than their city-based counterparts.

“The Universities Accord makes it clear that we need more people from the regions and outer suburbs to get a university qualification,” Mr Clare said.

“I want more young people to get a crack at going to university and we know that postcode is a massive barrier for young people getting that chance.”

There are currently two similar hubs in Arnhem Land servicing Wuyagiba, Nhulunbuy, Galiwinku, and Ramininging.

Assistant Education Minister and Regional Development Senator Anthony Chisholm said the hubs created a “campus-like environment” to reduce geographic barriers to tertiary education.

“Students can access support, the latest technology and be part of an engaging learning environment to help them achieve their academic goals, without having to leave their community,” Mr Chrisholm said.

Lingiari MP Marion Scrymgour welcomed the announcement.

“It means people can study on-country without the added cost and burden of travelling interstate,” Ms Scrymgour said.

“These can be real barriers for our people to getting a quality education.

“Having a study hub in East Arnhem Land means more local people will get the qualifications to fill local jobs, which are otherwise filled by workers from interstate.”