It’s a government priority, which is good for Study Hubs

Regional Study Hubs met for their first “group networking” conference yesterday, in Geraldton WA – which may be why Education Minister Dan Tehan welcomed participants via video. Even so, his virtual-presence is instructive.

The hubs offer study spaces, video-conferencing, computing facilities and internet access, plus academic support for distance education students enrolled at partner universities.

There are 16 of them, in 23 locations right across the commonwealth, (ex ACT).  A full-scale Hub conference is scheduled  for November, at Jindabyne in the NSW Snowy Mountains

This is a higher education area Mr Tehan is keen on. The Hubs are important to the one HE area he nominated when reappointed to the education portfolio, with pre-schools, childcare and schools. “The work we have begun with higher education providers to lift Australia’s attainment rates outside of our capital cities will remain a paramount priority,” (CMM May 27).

There is more to come, with the complete report from Dennis Napthine’s regional education strategy group expected in a couple of weeks.