Vice-Chancellor updates campus staff on Warrnambool 2020 strategy

Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Jane den Hollander today met with Warrnambool campus staff to provide an update on the development of the University’s Warrnambool 2020 strategy.

As part of its 2020 strategy, Deakin University is considering a range of options for the future of higher education in Warrnambool.

Professor den Hollander said despite a great deal of effort and investment in Deakin’s Warrnambool campus, enrolments have continued a steady year-on-year decline, from 1342 students in 2011 to 872 forecast this year.

“Our engagement through Warrnambool 2020 confirmed there is a growing gap between what Deakin offers (undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses) and the particular needs of the region’s students, businesses and the broader community where the desire is mostly for certificate and diploma qualifications at the sub degree level,” Professor den Hollander said.

“We are therefore considering ideas that would deliver a more appropriate model of higher education in Warrnambool to create new opportunities for people to live, learn and work in the region.

“We need to find a solution that will drive increased participation in higher education across the region, will be more sustainable and better suited to local education and job requirements.

“At this stage we have not confirmed a final direction, but I can say that we are in discussions with a range of people and organisations as we work to find a better higher education solution for Warrnambool. I will as always keep everyone informed through my regular briefings to staff.”