Children’s University Australasia and Africa (IO)
Children’s University Australasia and Africa (IO) has been selected as an ABA100® Winner for Community Contribution in The Australian Business Awards 2024. The Australian Business Award for Community Contribution [CCA] recognises organisations that implement initiatives that have a positive impact on the community and generate outcomes that have a long-term benefit.
Being recognised as the ABA100® Winner for Community Contribution in The Australian Business Awards 2024 is an incredible honour that highlights the deep impact Children’s University Australasia and Africa has had over the past 11 years. What began as a bold initiative has grown into a transformative force for children, families, and communities across the region. Led by the University of Adelaide, alongside our valued university partners, we are united by the belief that every child’s potential is limitless, and it is our privilege to walk alongside them as they realise their dreams.
I’ve seen firsthand the resilience, creativity, and passion of the young people we work with, and it’s their stories that continue to inspire us to push boundaries and create even greater opportunities. Our commitment to providing equitable access to learning and ensuring that no dream fades due to circumstances remains stronger than ever. This award is a reflection of the unwavering dedication of our communities, university partners, and the tireless efforts of the entire Children’s University team. Together, we are shaping a future where every child, regardless of background, can aspire, achieve, and thrive.
Led by the University of Adelaide, Children’s University (CU) Australasia and Africa (IO) is a robust partnership comprising the University of Tasmania; the University of Newcastle; Swinburne University of Technology; Charles Darwin University; the University of Western Australia; Edith Cowan University (Australia); Lincoln University; the University of Canterbury; Massey University (New Zealand), and the AfrAsia Foundation.
Together, we are proud to be making a significant difference in reducing educational and social inequity through the innovative Children’s University program for children and young people.
CU believes every child deserves an equitable and inclusive education to achieve their full potential. The program aims to redress the balance by offering children, especially those from marginalised backgrounds and remote/regional areas, opportunities to participate in outstanding extracurricular learning activities.
Activities can range from immersive, high-tech experiences in university laboratories, museum scavenger hunts, speaking to a zookeeper, creating a paper city, trying out acrobatics and everything in between. Activities are chosen to empower children with a love of learning and the skills and attributes that will last a lifetime. Facilitated visits to university campuses and local industries help break down perceived barriers to Higher Education, open eyes to opportunities and introduce children to exciting new possibilities.
The success of Children’s University is a collective impact. A multi-layered learning network extends learning outside the classroom, bringing together schools, families, government departments, community groups, charities, local businesses, future industries, and other organisations that offer the potential for life-changing learning experiences. These learning partners share best practices and new ideas, co-create activities, provide support for new members, and give the program greater depth and scope, which in turn provides more opportunities for young people, their families, schools and communities.
Children’s University benefits more than just the students and families involved. CU-led school holiday programs bring communities together, raise awareness of local businesses and strengthen organisations through volunteering opportunities. The result is more robust communities where young people are given a chance to be viewed and valued whilst building networks that will hopefully last a lifetime.
Since its inception in 2013, Children’s University has experienced remarkable growth. From operating in one state with 44 members, they now span three countries with over 70,000 members across the lifetime of the program, supported by 514 schools and 930 Learning Destinations. This growth is a testament to the program’s effectiveness in providing actionable data that informs and improves learning outcomes for the most underrepresented and at-risk children and young people.
Children’s University looks forward to continuing to support our communities in discovering the joy of learning and finding their brightest future.
For information about Children’s University Australasia and Africa (IO), visit cuaustralasia.com