21 teams of high-achieving First Nations students in Years 10–12 have been selected to participate in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aspirations Program (ATSIAP) senior secondary state final. Teams of students from across the state battled it out in the ATSIAP Regional Challenge with the top 3 teams from each region progressing to the state final.
The challenge ‘Heal our future through the past’ has been collaboratively developed by the Department of Education and Griffith University. Focusing on traditional healing practices that were historically adopted by Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the challenge explores how they may be incorporated into modern day mainstream health practices.
During the 6-week challenge, finalists will research and consult with their local community to identify a prominent health concern impacting their community. Teams will develop a community health profile, identifying the health issue and possible traditional health approaches that may be implemented to address it.
Teams will then deliver a persuasive speech calling on Queensland Government to adopt their planned healthcare approach.
Winners will be announced at the ATSIAP state final awards ceremony on 21 June 2023.
ATSIAP aims to develop students’ critical and creative thinking through solving real-life problems, connecting students with like-minded peers and fostering post-school tertiary aspirations. For more information about ATSIAP, contact
atsiap@qed.qld.gov.au.