Researchers call for comprehensive Accord study on racism in tertiary education
Responding to the Australian Universities Accord Final Report, the Challenging Racism Project (CRP), a leading Australian research program on racism and anti-racism based at Western Sydney University, commends the call for a study into the prevalence and impact of racism across the tertiary education system.
The proposed study’s emphasis upon the experiences of First Nations staff and students is critically important, given that the rates of experience of racism among Indigenous Australians generally are double those of non-Indigenous Australians.
On International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination – known as ‘Harmony Day’ in Australia, Professor Kevin Dunn, Cluster Director at the Challenging Racism Project, said the Accord's focus on student success targets for equity groups, including First Nation Australians, is commendable. However, it is essential that these targets also extend to other cultural minority groups, ensuring inclusivity across all aspects of tertiary education.
Professor Dunn highlighted that groups affected by racism in the sector are diverse and include students and staff from humanitarian backgrounds, international students and staff, some religious groups, and individuals from non-White backgrounds such as those with Pasifika, Asian or African heritage.
“The CRP congratulates the Accord Panel for outlining student success targets for equity groups, including First Nation Australians. However, these targets should also cover participation from other cultural minority groups, such as those from Pasifika and African backgrounds,” said Professor Dunn.
Additionally, the CRP affirms the proposal that the Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC) will monitor and track student access and success from equity groups. However, the group emphasises the need for mechanisms to report racism and share best practice anti-racism.
The CRP advocates for the Australian Tertiary Education Commission to annually track the experience of racism and the safety of students and staff, whether on campus or during placement. Furthermore, mechanisms for university staff and students to report instances of racism in the sector should be investigated.
The Implementation Advisory Committee that advises the Minister on the Accord implementation should articulate an anti-racism monitoring role for the ATEC, including the collection and dissemination of good anti-racism practices within tertiary education settings.
About the Challenging Racism Project:
Based at Western Sydney University, the Challenging Racism Project (CRP) is the leading Australian research program on racism and anti-racism. Located in Western Sydney, one of the most culturally diverse regions in Australia, CRP provides expert analysis and commentary on issues of national and international importance and uses evidence to inform, educate and train individuals as well as local and global communities on positive interventions for culturally diverse societies.
ENDS
21 March 2024
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