The National Indigenous Knowledges Education Research and Innovation (NIKERI) Institute at Deakin University provides access to university for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through its distinctive Community Based Delivery (CBD) program. The CBD program was developed to offer Indigenous students from across the country the opportunity to access higher education with the flexibility to maintain family, work, and fulfil cultural obligations while studying without having to relocate from home.
Today, more than 1100 graduates have completed their studies at NIKERI Institute from all states and territories in Australia. By leveraging the best of Indigenous and Western Knowledge systems NIKERI offers students a study experience that values their individual perspectives and experiences alongside a formal qualification.
Current Bachelor of Bachelor of Early Childhood and Primary Education student, Vanessa Heng, a Goreng woman from Western Australia says the alternative entry process enabled her to pursue university.
“Growing up in a small country town of WA and being a young mother and early school leaver, I didn’t think I was good enough to attend university until I was told about NIKERI Institute at Deakin University.”
The learning environment brings together students all with their own individual perspectives and experiences. Surrounded in class with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peers, students study in a space that prioritises First Nations Knowledges and cultural safety. Vanessa says this sense of community is vital.
“From my first enquiry I felt like I belonged. It feels like my family, my home away from home.”
“The teaching and student services staff have made my university journey comfortable and a smooth transition providing all the support I need. I am in a learning environment that I am accepted to learn my way without judgement.”
Bachelor of Nursing student, Whitney Seden from Darwin agrees.
“The best thing about studying at NIKERI is the focused support you are provided as soon as you are accepted into the program. It is flexible enough for you to continue your work and personal requirements at home whilst also studying. I don’t think I would have been to complete my study effectively if it wasn’t for Community Based Delivery and the support provided by the teaching and NIKERI staff.”
NIKERI has a proud history of empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from across Australia to pursue careers in health, education, arts, law, research and environment management.
Whitney is looking forward to becoming one of a growing number of qualified Indigenous nurses.
“I have a passion in working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healthcare and see the requirement for more culturally appropriate staff needed in the profession. I’ve always had a passion to care and provide support to my community, so nursing was the perfect opportunity to undertake to pursue this career.”
Vanessa is also looking to contribute to improving outcomes for community by becoming a teacher who will influence the next generation of young people.
“I am now into my second year of study, I’m feeling strong and very proud of myself knowing I am the change for the children. I will be taking my way of teaching into classrooms with the strength and encouragement from NIKERI.”