Australia’s first Bush University (since 2018)
The Wuyagiba Study Hub is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education’s Regional University Study Hub program. The Bush Uni was co-created by Emilie Ens, Dr Cherry Wulumirr Daniels (OAM) (dec), Dr Kevin Rogers (OAM) (dec), Dr Helen Rogers, with other Elders and communities of south east Arnhem Land, with Macquarie Uni’s Walanga Muru (Indigenous Engagement Unit). The Bush Uni has been cited, including as a local solution to Closing the Gap, in the 2019, 2020, 2021, 2025 and 2026 Australian “Closing the Gap” Reports. See the Wuyagiba website here: https://www.wuyagibastudyhub.org/
This project has so far provided a pathway to Macquarie University for over 40 local Aboriginal students from Arnhem Land. Students at Macquarie University have been largely supported by the Origin Foundation, Abstudy and Student Equity Scholarships.
Ngukurr Yangbala Project (funded by The Nature Conservancy, 2016-2018)
To support young Aboriginal people of south east Arnhem Land, especially women, gain experience and skills in conservation of natural and cultural resources. Over three years this project supported 53 young people in employment roles across a range of conservation and cultural projects,
Led by Mrs Cherry Wulumirr Daniels OAM (now deceased, pictured left) and Dr Emilie Ens. This project directly led to establishment of the Wuyagiba Bush Uni.
See the Yangbala YouTube Channel here https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNVTrr40DTDZeZhYOxojsLg
Cross-Cultural Ecology, Education and Restoration Lab 