The Vice-Chancellor of Charles Sturt University (CSU), Professor Ian Goulter, and senior members of the University welcomed the opportunity to have a brief meeting with the Prime Minister, Mr John Howard, today (Friday 25 May) as part of the Prime Minister’s visit to Bathurst.

 

Professor Goulter said he appreciated being able to personally thank the Prime Minister for his government’s recognition of the University and its goal of ensuring the sustainable growth of Australia’s inland communities.

 

“It was a pleasure to personally meet Mr Howard and thank him for his government’s support of Charles Sturt University and our initiatives,” Professor Goulter said.

 

“The Federal Government’s recognition of CSU’s ability to train and retain professionals for rural and regional communities reinforces what the University is about.

 

“CSU prides itself on being able to make a real contribution to inland Australia by providing a range of vital professionals such as teachers, environmental managers, accountants, veterinarians, police officers, nurses and allied health professionals,” he said.

 

The University received a total of $70.6 million in the 2007 Federal Budget with $65.1 million dedicated to a new dental program to help address the dental crisis.

 

“With enrolments into the dental program to commence in 2009, the University has begun to implement its Dental Plan which will see state of the art facilities for the School of Dentistry constructed and professional dental clinics established across the University’s region,” Professor Goulter said.