The students, staff, businesses and community partners who inspire the University of Newcastle’s reputation for producing work-ready graduates have been recognised in the institution’s inaugural Employability Excellence Awards.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Mark Hoffman said the provided an opportunity for the University community to highlight the amazing things students and staff were doing outside the traditional classroom to complement their studies and enhance their employability.
“Congratulations to each of our nominated students, staff members and industry partners who have achieved great things together this year – through extra-curricular activities, paid internships, entrepreneurial activities, and Work Integrated Learning. Their stories are inspiring.”
Professor Hoffman said the University was committed to building the employability skills of its students through experiences such as world-class Work Integrated Learning and by providing access to top quality extra-curricular activities.
“The Awards also recognise University staff who play a vital role in providing valuable opportunities for students to apply their knowledge and skills and develop professional networks as part of their university experience,” he said.
“We know these experiences give our students a special edge for life once they leave university.”
“The awards also honour our valuable community and industry partners who collaborate with our University, guiding our students and giving them opportunities to apply their learning in real life workplace settings,” Professor Hoffman said.
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky, said the University’s Looking Ahead Strategic Plan, placed Work Integrated Learning, employability development and community engagement as a centrepiece to the successful preparation of students to become life-ready graduates.
“At the University of Newcastle, we prepare our graduates to meet the challenges and opportunities of their future,” Professor Zelinsky said.
“We want our graduates to be career-ready, professionally engaged, and excited about their future beyond university.
“But this can only happen through powerful partnerships with industry, business and our community. Thank you to our partners for contributing to the professional preparation of our graduates; and to growing and strengthening our regions,” he said.
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