Arrow Energy has partnered with Griffith University, to create opportunities for Indigenous scholarships in Brisbane as part of a new statewide higher education project.
Arrow Energy CEO Andrew Faulkner said the two-year agreement with Griffith, Queensland University of Technology and the University of Queensland, would create 13 new scholarships and was aimed at encouraging Indigenous people into higher education.
“University completion rates for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are significantly below that of non-Indigenous students,” Mr Faulkner said.
“The scholarships are designed to address this imbalance. This is a complete educational package that also includes mentoring, tutoring and peer support networks so students have the best support to achieve their goals.”
The Arrow Energy Indigenous Scholarship Program will provide: –
* Griffith University: two scholarships for students in energy-related disciplines; one scholarship in any tertiary program; support for the Hands Up! Tertiary Preparation Program which supports commencing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to adapt to university life and improve their academic skills.
* Queensland University of Technology: four scholarships in energy-related disciplines; two scholarships in any tertiary program; and a Go Further! QUT Experience camp for Indigenous Year 11 and 12 students from Gladstone, Dalby, Moranbah and Brisbane regions to encourage their interest in tertiary education.-
* University of Queensland: two scholarships in energy-related disciplines; two scholarships in any tertiary program; and the First Year Indigenous Science Student Support Program to help up to 50 first year students entering into science-based degree programs understand the demands of university study, and develop the study habits and discipline required for successful outcomes. –
The scholarships are open to any Indigenous students but preference will be given to students who identify with Traditional Owner groups in Arrow’s areas of operation.
Mr Faulkner said the scholarships would remove some of the barriers that might discourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander high school students from progressing to higher education.
“Today’s new scholarships add to the Indigenous opportunities that Arrow has already backed — from Arrow’s Brighter Futures community investment fund to school-based traineeships.”
Arrow has also established similar scholarship programs at James Cook University, University of Southern Queensland and CQUniversity for a total commitment of $780,000 over two years.
For more information or to apply, visit: QUT, UQ or Griffith scholarships web pages.