Launch: The National Indigenous Knowledges, Education, Research and Innovation (NIKERI)

Cultural Tree of Knowledge by Deanne Gilson. Deanne is a Wadawurrung Traditional Custodian and a PhD candidate at the Institute.

On Tuesday March 3 2020, Deakin University’s Institute of Koorie Education based at the Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus will formally change its name to the National Indigenous Knowledges, Education, Research and Innovation (NIKERI) Institute.

The name change reflects a national footprint inclusive of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and growing Indigenous Knowledges and commitment to Indigenous research within the Institute.

The Institute acknowledges that over 1,000 students have graduated and is proud of the 30+ years of history, however similar to when the original Koorie Teacher Education Program (KTEP) evolved into the Institute of Koorie Education (IKE), the rebrand reflects the growing capabilities of the Institute and the name reflects this. 

Our next chapter
The National Indigenous Knowledges, Education, Research and Innovation (NIKERI) Institute is committed to fostering productive and meaningful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and all other Australians to shape and co-construct a shared contemporary Australian narrative. 

Through the key strategic pillars of Engagement, Teaching and Learning, Student Experience and Research, we seek to make visible and accessible the value, vibrancy and rigor of Australian First Nations Knowledge Systems, cultures, traditions, histories, perspectives and insights. 

Our community is our core
NIKERI will be a space that situates and promotes the principles of Community, upholding that the humanity, world views, experiences and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples be regarded with respect and dignity. 

The Community Based Delivery (CBD) is a core aspect of our teaching and learning model and will continue to provide access to higher education for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The current courses offered through the Institute have not changed and enrolments, current students and graduates will not be impacted by the change in name of the Institute. 

NIKERI will maintain and further develop a culturally safe environment for all Indigenous Peoples across Deakin University that empowers authentic engagement, aspiration and positive outcomes.