Locking Down, Opening Up: Prioritising Equitable Access and Success in a Time of Uncertainty: a free and open event to all

World Access to Higher Education Day events November 17-18, 2020

WAHED is a day of action; a chance to pause and reflect on the role of higher education in Australian society and the inequality facing our students.  During 2020, many students have experienced significant negative changes to employment, and Federal government revisions to course fees, whilst universities have attempted to negotiate resource digitisation against commercial interests.  Open education offers an opportunity for equitable, affordable access to learning resources, and new avenues for authentic, engaging assessment that supports student retention and graduate employability.

Join us for a day of practical sessions featuring case studies, research-informed practice, and an action planning workshop on Novemeber 17; followed by “Advocating for Equity in a Post Pandemic World” hosted by the USQ College on November 18.  

The 2019 Report ‘Starved of Opportunity’ highlighted the experience of young people on Youth Allowance.  Given the findings,  continued action on equity and affordability in higher education is critical

80.1% have struggled with essential course material fees

35.2% have withdrawn from study due to the cost

51.1% have experienced housing insecurity or homelessness

89.9% skip at least one meal per week