An innovative apprenticeship scheme is providing real training and work opportunities for Indigenous people.
Charles Darwin University has welcomed the second group of apprentices under its Indigenous Apprenticeship Program.
Stemming from CDU’s Indigenous Employment and Retention Strategy, the two-year, part-time program gives apprentices an opportunity to gain practical skills and knowledge while they earn an income.
The group of 10 apprentices are studying Certificates II or III in a variety of areas including Business, Horticulture, Children's Services, Financial Services, Library and Information Access.
At a special ceremony on the Casuarina campus, CDU Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership, Professor Steven Larkin welcomed the apprentices and encouraged them to embrace the opportunity.
“The program represents an excellent opportunity to obtain a nationally recognised qualification through on-the-job training combined with study,” he said.
“It has been designed to lead participants into full-time employment with the possibility of continuing employment with CDU on completion."
CDU’s Senior Consultant, Indigenous Employment PMD, Karen McLean said the apprentices were very keen and excited to be given the opportunity.
“All areas of the university have been extremely supportive of the program and many faculties and divisions have asked to be included following the success of the inaugural program,” she said.
All apprentices took part in a week of inductions to become familiar with the campus and began work on Monday, 8 February.