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The University of Western Australia’s Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics and several lucky student ambassadors have embarked on a unique trip to explore Western Australia’s remote Broome region.

The 12 students will help promote computing, engineering and mathematics to high school students in the Kimberley while supporting the annual school sports carnival, the Kimberley Cup.

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.

UWA Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics Dean Professor John Dell said the trip provided a positive message about education to high school students and the community and helped build lasting relationships and support those in remote locations.

“The University of Western Australia is committed to giving back to the community and this is an important opportunity for the Faculty to raise aspirations and demonstrate that studying at university is an achievable ambition.” Professor Dell said.

“We also encourage our students to play a part in ‘giving back’. Not only are they adding value in a remote area, but they are also gaining a rewarding experience and insight into working with regional communities.”

Engineering Science student Rachael Honey said it was important to be able to make a difference to remote communities.

“I enjoy sharing my experiences and knowledge with those who have less opportunity. Everyone deserves equal access to education, no matter your race, age, gender, or hometown, so I am very passionate about participating in this program.”

Chemical Engineering student Jonathan Lee will be heading back to Broome as an ambassador for the second year in a row and said it was a great initiative for both students and ambassadors.

“Last year, was an extremely rewarding experience, not only being able to interact with students face-to-face but also culturally. Being able to see the direct impact on students and inspiring their belief that they too could be university students one day, was an experience I’ll never forget.”

The group will also discover more about local Indigenous culture, spending time with Broome families whose family members have studied at UWA.

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

Media references

Lauren Humfrey  (Marketing Assistant, the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics)   (+61 8) 6488 2260

Ray Garrett (Senior Project Officer, School of Indigenous Studies )      (+61 4) 17 933 098