Our communities want real educational reform. We are not talking about reform of the mainstream system. We want to re-establish our own systems of education and for these to be recognised and supported across the country. We want to lead our own system of education – a national First Nations Education system. We recognise the right of each Nation to build and deliver education for their children and families.
Children’s Ground has supported the sixth Utyerre Apanpe First Nations Education Forum held from 28 – 30 August 2024 in Mparntwe (Alice Springs).
This year over 90 educators from a diversity of Nations attended the event, coming together to share their experience, knowledge and expertise with one another.
Utyerre Apanpe is a national network of First Nations educators, working through cultural authority and educational standards.
The 2024 forum agenda focused on an implementation plan for the M.K. Turner Report – a blueprint for First Nations-led and designed education reform in Australia. The implementation plan will be delivered to Territory and Federal governments.
In conclusion to the Forum, the attending First Nations educators and senior leaders co-authored, signed and delivered a statement on the critical need for a national First Nations education system. The statement is an open-hearted invitation for all levels of government to work with First Nations people in collaboration to make the changes we know are needed.
