Utyerra Apanpe forum will bring First Nations education professionals together

Freya Lucas

May 09, 2023

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The Utyerra Apanpe forum is a free annual event which sees First Nations educators, professors, teachers and others who are connected with learning and teaching environments connect with one another on Country and nourish the knowledge systems they own and share through kinship and cultural responsibilities.

The 2023 forum will be held from 17 to 20 July at the Ross River Resort in Central Australia, bringing together a network of First Nations people (who are the only permitted attendees) to speak about reforming the education system, setting standards, and supporting a formal workforce and network of First Nations educators across Australia.

“Utyerre Apanpe is a vehicle for change in establishing a national First Nations Educational System,”a spokesperson said.

During the forum, participants will have space and opportunity to share First Nations pedagogy, curriculum, standards, and practices in their learning environments underpinned by culture, language and Country.

Coming together through Utyerre Apanpe gives experienced educators from many nations a chance to to join their voices, vision, and support for each other to achieve the change they have been seeking for over 50 years.

At the 2023 gathering, participants will confirm the roadmap and framework for a National Reform, the MK Turner Review.

The agenda for the four-day event will be finalised closer to the time. Accommodation at the event will be camping, and swags can be provided if needed.

Limited covered accommodation is available, and there will be accessible amenities for all attendees. The event is completely free of charge, and all accommodation, resources, meals and beverages will be provided for free during the event.

Ross River is an hour’s drive from Alice Springs. Transport to and from Mparntwe to Ross River is available.

More information about this event, which is open to First Nations people only, is available here.

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