Universities Australia will today bring together students, university leaders and government representatives from across the country to explore how students can play a stronger role in shaping university governance and culture.
Held at UNSW Sydney, the UA Student Governance Symposium will attract more than 300 participants to discuss how closer collaboration between students and institutions can drive better decision-making, accountability and inclusion across Australia's higher education system.
The symposium is designed to build a stronger, more connected approach to governance across the sector, UA Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said.
"Good governance relies on diverse voices, and students bring fresh insight, experience and a deep stake in the decisions that shape their education.
"Universities are here for students and it makes sense they play an active role in shaping the communities they're part of.
"When students are genuinely part of the conversation, universities become more connected, more responsive and ultimately stronger."
Students play a vital role in ensuring effective university governance by being active collaborators, Professor Attila Brungs, Vice Chancellor and President of UNSW Sydney, said.
"At UNSW, students are co-owners of our culture that strives to be inclusive, principled and responsive," Prof. Brungs said. "Their voices shouldn't just be valued and heard - but actively shape the policies, systems and direction of the University in its mission to advance progress for all.
"This symposium encourages the sector to explore how we can further develop cultures where active and broad-based student partnership is embedded at all levels, shaping the future of our universities, particularly at this time when the nature of higher education is being transformed.
"This is a critical way we can ensure universities best serve the public good."
Planning for the symposium began earlier this year as part of UA's strong commitment to strengthening university governance and leadership.
The symposium will demonstrate what's possible when students and university leaders come together with a shared goal, Ashlyn Horton, National President of the National Union of Students said.
"Students aren't just the reason universities exists - we're also vital to their success," Ms Horton said.
"When student voices are part of the decision-making process, universities become more inclusive, more accountable and ultimately stronger.
"This symposium shows how collaboration and respect can lead to real, lasting change."
The symposium will feature discussions and panels with leaders from universities, student organisations, government agencies and governance bodies, sharing insights on how to build stronger, more transparent and inclusive decision-making structures across the sector.
The event is part of UA's ongoing work to promote best practice in university governance and to strengthen student partnership at the heart of higher education decision-making.
