03 Apr 2017
Indigenous female students are the focus of a new initiative launched at Gunnedah High School on Monday, March 20.
Girls Academy is a program that aims to drive community-led solutions to reduce barriers that may prevent indigenous girls from completing their education and reaching their full potential. It will work within the school system to "Develop a Girl - Change a Community".
The launch was well-attended, with special guests including representatives from sponsors Whitehaven, Nestle and Idemitsu, Minister for Early Childhood Education and Aboriginal Affairs Sarah Mitchell, Girls Academy founder Ricky Grace, NSW Public Schools director Mark Young, and Aboriginal education and community engagement director Mary Senj.
Ms Mitchell addressed the crowd as both a minister and former student, offering encouragement. "I want you to know that all of us here are investing in you because we believe in
you, in your future, and what you can achieve," she said.
"We know you can do anything, but we also know you're going to need help to reach your potential because sadly in Australia, Aboriginal girls face some of the greatest social disadvantage of our nation's population.
"As the future mothers and leaders of the Indigenous community, making sure you are strong and educated young women is critical to closing the gap that exists between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians."
Head teacher of well-being Bianca Small said it was a fantastic evening that was well-supported.
"As a proud local Aboriginal woman of Gunnedah and former student of Gunnedah High, it was with great pleasure that I was able to be a part of the Girls Academy launch," she said.
"The kids really enjoyed the opportunity to showcase their
ancing in front of their families, friends and special guests. They demonstrated that they are good role models and inspire not only their peers but also adults."
School principal Shane Kelly said the initiative was aimed at being a "schoolwide initiative".
"It is an exciting time for Gunnedah High and I look forward to what can be achieved from the girls in the program and the flow-on effects from Gunnedah High into the Gunnedah community," he said.
- Vanessa Hohnke, Namoi Valley Independent