RMIT University is aiming to help more people into post-secondary education pathways, through its equity access schemes.
The raft of initiatives includes the Schools Network Access Program, and I Belong, for school students in regions of Melbourne and Victoria that are typically under-represented in university enrolments.
The programs help ensure greater engagement across priority cohorts and also build a diverse student population and inclusive campus experience, in line with the Australian Universities Accord.
Among the participants is proud Aboriginal woman Claire Brown, who was raised in Bairnsdale in regional Victoria, and never considered finishing high school.
Through the I Belong program, the RMIT Bachelor of Education (Primary) student has become the first person in her family to start a university degree.
“We know education can open the door to formative experiences and endless opportunities,” says RMIT University Associate Director Student Equity Lara Rafferty.
“That’s why RMIT is continuing to provide pathways to students of all backgrounds, through our range of equity access initiatives.”
Brown says that, growing up, she was aware she was treated differently because she was Indigenous.
“My parents didn’t finish high school and knowing that it would be a lot harder for me, university just seemed a bit out of reach for me.
“The RMIT program helped me decide what I wanted to do. Just knowing that I have the support and that I’m not alone has been really helpful.
“I’ve learned that background and circumstances and where you come from doesn’t matter. Even if someone says you can’t go to university, don’t listen to them. You can do it, if you want to.”
