UNAIR NEWS – The World University Association of Community Development (WUACD) continued its activities with a visit to Federation University’s Gippsland Campus on the third day. The host institution for this WUACD meeting has three campuses: Berwick, Mt Helen, and Gippsland. Gippsland Campus, the farthest of the three, is located approximately 161 kilometers from Melbourne.
Warm Welcome from CERC
Delegates were welcomed by the Collaborative Evaluation and Research Center (CERC), guided by Professor Joanne Porter. CERC is a research-focused institution that addresses various societal issues through accurate, timely, and sustainable evaluations. Beyond research, the center also conducts training sessions, workshops, and mentorship programs in evaluation methods.
CERC places significant emphasis on the indigenous peoples of Australia, commonly referred to as Aboriginal Australians. These are the original inhabitants of the continent, living there long before European settlers arrived.
Allan Coe, a lecturer at Federation University actively involved in supporting indigenous communities, participated in the session virtually. He provided insights into his work, emphasizing that engaging with indigenous populations is a moral obligation for universities. Coe highlighted historical tensions between early European settlers and indigenous peoples, underlining the importance of reconciliation efforts.
Federation University not only provides support but also conducts research on the challenges faced by indigenous peoples, working to develop solutions. This dedication reflects the university’s respect for Australia’s history, as acknowledged on its official website.
The university also recognizes the traditional custodians of the lands and waters where its campuses operate, paying tribute to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their elders, and their legacy as the first nation’s people.
Hospital visit highlights community engagement
In the afternoon, the delegates visited Latrobe Regional Health, a government hospital and a key partner of Federation University. Located about 8 kilometers from the Gippsland Campus, this government hospital provides free healthcare services to the community.
The hospital also serves as a research and clinical training site, where medical students and lecturers conduct hands-on practice and studies. Delegates were welcomed with an overview of the hospital’s operations and later toured its facilities, observing patient care and the hospital’s specialized services.
The day’s agenda concluded with an introduction to one of CERC’s initiatives beyond research: capacity and capability building. Designed to promote a collaborative and positive work environment, the program included team-building exercises that emphasized cooperation and emotional resilience. These activities provided an engaging close to a productive and insightful day.
Author: Prof Purnawan Basundoro MHum, Dean of Humanities Universitas Airlangga, reporting from Melbourne Australia
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
