An agreement between Charles Sturt University (CSU) in Port Macquarie and the Hastings Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG) will enhance Indigenous education opportunities on the NSW Mid North Coast.

The two organisations will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Port Macquarie on Wednesday 18 June.

Head of Campus at CSU in Port Macquarie, Emeritus Professor Ross Chambers, said, "The MoU represents a shared commitment to achieve equitable access and successful education and training outcomes for Indigenous Australian students, and provides a framework founded upon the principles of mutual respect and empowerment. It embodies the values, commitments and recommendations of CSU's Reconciliation Statement and Indigenous Education Strategy.

"The Hastings AECG has been very successful in promoting an integrated and cooperative approach to Indigenous education among education providers at all levels, and in engaging the community with education providers.

"The MoU is intended to strengthen the University's cooperation with the AECG and will result in strong communication with and advice from the community on needs and priorities to inform CSU's Indigenous Education Strategy at Port Macquarie.

"It provides an improved framework for aspiration building; pathways from schools and TAFE; and culturally appropriate support for students.

"Equally importantly, the MoU represents a commitment to ensure that all students and staff have an inclusive environment which respects Indigenous cultures and promotes understanding of them.  The MoU enhances the opportunities for non-Indigenous staff and students to learn about and be enriched by Indigenous cultures."

Ms Rhonda Radley, President of the Hastings AECG, said, "This agreement between the Hastings AECG and Charles Sturt University demonstrates the importance of working together to enhance educational opportunities and learning outcomes for Indigenous people in our region. It is great that together, we are able to support and encourage Aboriginal people to follow their dreams, gain professional employment and break down stereotypes.

"The Hastings AECG is growing and encourages members of the community to join and become involved in the education of our community."

The MoU contains comprehensive and proactive strategies to address the areas of teaching and learning, including the creation of pathways to CSU and the incorporation of Biripi cultural knowledge, language and history into University curricula and teaching; cultural awareness training for staff working with Indigenous students and the Biripi and Hastings Aboriginal community; research; leadership and accountability; and meaningful, mutually beneficial engagement between communities, schools and CSU.

Significantly, the MoU commits the parties to genuine and meaningful engagement in ways which empower the local Indigenous community and stakeholders toward self-determination and promote a sense of place and belonging at CSU in Port Macquarie.