Brisbane Boys’ College (BBC) today announced a new First Nations Bursary Program supported by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA).
Beginning in 2023, up to 10 First Nations students from regional and remote communities in Australia will begin boarding school at BBC as recipients of the bursaries which will provide for the duration of their education at BBC.
As part of the program, the school will employ a dedicated Indigenous Program Manager to provide cultural support as the students progress in their studies.
Students will also receive mentoring from CBA people, have the opportunity to complete work experience at the bank and gain a nationally recognised certification.
BBC Headmaster Mr Andre Casson welcomed representatives from CBA, including Indigenous Advisory Council Member Aunty Gail Mabo, to a morning tea at BBC to formalise the partnership and meet with some current Indigenous Scholarship students.
Mr Casson said: “The purpose behind this program is to provide First Nations young men with a BBC Education that can seamlessly link to higher education or a workplace pathway. This program is designed to be a lifecycle program that doesn’t stop when recipients leave BBC but continues to support tertiary studies or employment with CBA. It integrates an education as the key and first step which opens many doors.”
He added, “As a school, it is our ambition that all young men who come through our gates have the opportunity to thrive. This exciting partnership with CBA personifies this ambition.”
Alan Docherty, Group Chief Financial Officer said: “We know that education leads to better employment opportunities and a profoundly brighter future for socio-economic outcomes, long-term health and social engagement for all Australians.
“This partnership supports First Nations students to access education through one of Brisbane’s leading schools. Along with CBA’s Indigenous careers programs, we’re seeking to actively provide opportunities that help build a brighter future for First Nations kids,” he said.
CBA Indigenous Advisory Council Member Aunty Gail Mabo, who will support the students as a Cultural Elder, said: “This is a wonderful program for these young men to explore everything a BBC education can offer, giving them the tools to walk in two worlds and the positive impact that can have for their future, their families and communities.
“I look forward to watching them grow into proud, successful and thriving young warriors ready to take on the challenges of their communities,” she said.
CBA First Nation Bursary applications are open now. For more details go to .
