The quality of human capital produced by our education and training system is critical to labour force participation and productivity. Access to high quality education and training is also a ladder for social mobility, especially for disadvantaged groups. The education and training system is also a growing employer, and education is a major export earner.
We now know from brain science that the early years before school are in fact critical for a child’s subsequent learning and wellbeing, especially for those from vulnerable families. The availability of child care is also a major factor driving increased workforce participation. However, the quality, funding and accessibility of these services generally do not match that of the school sector.
Human capital is becoming more important as technology change and our maturing economy shifts employment more towards the service sector and knowledge based jobs. STEM education and training will be critical, but so will key skills like creativity, critical thinking, learning, communication, interpersonal skills, career-management, self-awareness, confidence, and entrepreneurship.
Australia’s research institutions also underpin our national innovation ecosystem—where ideas are transformed into solutions that shape industries, communities and the economy. As technological disruption accelerates and global challenges grow more complex, the ability to connect education with research translation and commercialisation has become essential.
Team experience includes:
University of Melbourne – developed a research strategy for the Faculty of Business and Economics, as well as a research roundtable with State Government Departments
University of Melbourne – developed a digital strategy for the Faculty of Business and Economics with a focus on teaching and learning, research and administration.
Monash University – development and implementation of a commercialisation strategy for the University, aiming to achieve a step change in commercialisation outcomes
Australian Mathematics Trust and Australian Science Innovations – evaluation of a program to provide opportunities for students from under-represented groups to increase their knowledge, skills and confidence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
Commonwealth Government – a series of projects over seven years to review early childhood programs serving regional and remote areas and Indigenous communities across Australia, and to help implement major reforms