Thursday, 9 August 2012

Two Indigenous students from Australian Catholic University (ACU) have been awarded the Governor-General’s Indigenous Student Teacher Scholarship.

Awarded anually to one student from each state, the scholarships are valued at $25,000 per year, for up to four years, and aim to assist and support Indigenous university students to obtain a teaching degree.

The ACU recipients, Tracy Edwards who is completing an Associate Degree Indigenous Education/Bachelor of Education (Indigenous) and Lavinia Rossiter who is completing a Bachelor of Primary Education (Indigenous), said they were surprised and honoured to have been selected.

“There were so many applicants I didn't really know how I would go, but when I got the call saying I was successful, that was an amazing experience,” said Tracey.

“At first I was shocked - I couldn't actually believe I was selected… it was an amazing feeling that I was worthy of such an honour.  

“This scholarship will afford me peace of mind to complete my studies without the financial pressure of my fees and textbooks… this will take a little bit of pressure off.”

Lavinia, who is actively engaged in community work in Wiradjuri country, Bathurst, said she is looking forward to fulfilling the goals of the scholarship.

“This scholarship aims to help us become future teachers that will act as role models for Indigenous students and contribute to increasing educational expectations for Indigenous students, support community involvement, and raise awareness of other educators,” she said.

“I am looking forward to doing all of this and more.”

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