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Wednesday, 21 June 2017

The Faculty of Engineering and Mathematics Sciences (EMS) and 12 student ambassadors from the Faculty embark on a unique trip on Thursday 22 June, to explore Western Australia’s remote Broome region. The students will promote computing, engineering and mathematical sciences to high school students in the Kimberley while supporting the annual school sports carnival, the Kimberley Cup.

The sporting event is coordinated by Broome Senior High School and gives ambassadors an opportunity to share their experiences and knowledge with students whilst engaging with and supporting the community in regional WA.

The ambassadors will be led by a team of education specialists from Aspire UWA and the School of Indigenous Studies and assisted by current UWA Indigenous students from the Kimberley region. The ambassadors will help to run the sports competition, assist teachers with academic exercises, and organise practical and fun classroom activities.

Pro-Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean of EMS, Professor John Dell said the trip strengthens positive messages about education to high school students and community whilst helping to form lasting relationships and support those in remote locations.

“Giving back to the community is a strong commitment for the University and the Faculty recognises the opportunity to raise ambitions and demonstrate that university studies are an achievable aspiration.”

“We encourage students to develop altruism in ‘giving back’ and passing on their knowledge. Not only will they add value to a remote area but they also gain a rewarding experience and insight into working with regional communities.”

When the ambassadors were asked why they wanted to visit the Broome community and make a difference, engineering student Nicholas Seaman said: “I would love to pass on my engineering and science academic knowledge and promote a positive educational message to high school students and their greater community.”

Chelsea Bambrick said, “I am very passionate about engaging with regional students, and encouraging the importance of education and STEM subjects. The Kimberley Cup inspires community engagement and education, with the backdrop of sports competitions and activities. I think this is a great practical initiative to get students actively involved and passionate about further education, which can ordinarily be quite challenging.”

Mark Machado will be heading back to Broome as an ambassador for the second year in a row and said “I had the most amazing experience of my life when I took part in the Kimberley cup last year. I was overwhelmed at the opportunity to give back to UWA and the Broome community, as UWA has given me so much in every aspect of my life.”

“I grew up in the Pilbara and I know the challenges students face. I want to give students in Broome the same opportunity that was given to me, I feel it is my duty to inspire the next generation of students living in the Kimberley.”

In addition to the school activities, the group will use the trip to discover more about local Indigenous culture, spending time in sacred cultural places.

The Faculty of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences has been partnering annually with Aspire UWA to engage schools, community, alumni and industry throughout the Kimberley region.

Media references

Lauren Humfrey (UWA Faculty of Engineering Mathematical Sciences) (+61 8) 6488 2260

Ray Garrett (School of Indigenous Studies) (+61) 0417933098

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Arts and Culture — Events — Science — Students — Teaching and Learning
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Faculty of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences