Media Release
NT Indigenous Education Council hosts first community consultations
4 April 2008
The Northern Territory Indigenous Education Council is confident that it will play a pivotal role in improving educational outcomes for Indigenous Territorians, following three days of meetings in remote schools this week.
Council Chairperson Mark Motlop said he was encouraged by the level of interaction and the quality of dialogue that flowed from the first round of community consultations, which took place on the Tiwi Islands from 2-4 April.
“Our purpose is to directly engage with schools, parents, students and with community members - and to listen to their points of views and their concerns regarding Indigenous education,” he said.
Mr Motlop said the Council regarded itself as a conduit through which ideas and strategic advice about issues such as attendance, literacy, numeracy and language will be channelled to Territory and Australian Government Ministers.
“A good education opens the way for people to make good choices and we are exploring how we can facilitate discussions and contribute recommendations that will lead to substantially improved outcomes for Indigenous Territorians.”
Mr Motlop said the Council this week ratified its Strategic Plan for 2008-09, which will be published online at: www.deet.nt.gov.au/education/indigenous_education/ntiec/