Yoonggama Ma Nga will today launch at RMIT University, supporting self-identified land-based learning and research opportunities for First Nations people.
The centre will operate autonomously; however, a dedicated hub has been established at the RMIT City Campus to provide a physical meeting point for First Nations students and academics.
Several projects are already underway, focusing on First Nations Knowledge Systems across language, art, performance and culture.
The centre is expected to expand into a sovereign, self-determined First Nations academy with additional locations on Country, transcending any one university or site.
The name Yoonggama Ma Nga is derived from Keerray Woorroong and Arrernte language terms, meaning reciprocity.
It complements RMIT's responsible practice strategies, including the Ngarara Willim Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
Quotes attributable to Dr Vicki Couzens, Research Fellow, College of Design and Social Context, and Vice-President, RMIT University
"Yoonggama Ma Nga will be an autonomous, self-determined research and training academy for our own identified priorities and land-based learning. It's the culmination of a lifetime's work in our community.
"Everything comes from Country, so research and learning outcomes could be anything from cultural knowledge and practices, language or ceremony, right through to fire burning and revegetation.
"There's a lot of goodwill at RMIT, and there is an opportunity to establish something new, and actually create a space and a place outside the Western, capitalist framework, which isn't designed for First Nations success."
Quotes attributable to Deputy Vice-Chancellor Design and Social Context and Vice-President Tim Marshall
"Our vision for Yoonggama Ma Nga is to be the first stepping stone towards a sovereign, self-determined First Nations academy.
"Yoonggama Ma Nga is part of RMIT's commitment to carving out safe and inclusive spaces for First Nations academics, who can operate on their own terms, with operational support from RMIT.
"Its establishment signifies a new paradigm, in which First Nations academics will determine their own research priorities, training and learning needs."
