Students across the Orana region will be empowered to reach their higher education potential thanks to a new dedicated learning centre earmarked for Mudgee.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders announced $1,270,000 for a new Country Universities Centre (CUC) which will open doors for students to obtain their degrees without the need to move away from home.
“Where you live should not limit your opportunities for a good education and once operational, the centre will enable students to engage in and successfully complete their studies in a safe and flexible learning environment,” Mr Saunders said.
“The CUC model is designed and developed by regional people for regional people and their communities, to provide equitable access to higher education.
“CUC’s are encouraging graduates to stay and work in the regions while they complete their studies, which is future-proofing the workforce and helping boost local economies.”
The state-of-the-art facility is scheduled to open in 2024 and will be equipped with modern technology, high bandwidth internet, space to study and access to video conferencing.
Mid-Western Regional Council has also committed $700,000 to the project, and Mayor Des Kennedy said the investment in tertiary education for residents is fantastic to see.
“A CUC will provide great opportunities for residents working and studying, and additionally will assist the region to retain youth that are often forced to move away for study,” Mr Kennedy said.
Country Universities Centre interim-CEO Duncan Taylor said the Mudgee and broader community will benefit greatly from having a local CUC Centre.
“As we’ve seen in our other centres, the combination of study spaces, technology, the student community and the human support will provide the needed environment for local students to thrive in their studies and will enrich opportunities across the Orana region,” Mr Taylor said.
More information on the Country Universities Centre network can be found online.