Urangan State High School has won the state final of the
2021 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Aspirations Program (ATSIAP) academic challenge.
The team researched and developed a restoration plan in consultation with local Butchulla Elders and Fraser Coast Regional Council to improve their local Eli Creek. Their innovative design aims to benefit plants, animals and their local community.
The challenge, developed in collaboration with Griffith University, develops students’ critical and creative thinking skills through designing solutions to real-life problems.
Students were tasked with researching, designing and planning a restoration project that helped to protect and improve a local waterway near their school.
Throughout the 7-week challenge, the teams of students participated in online Q&A sessions with Griffith University experts to inspire them to innovate and design solutions using Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural and scientific knowledge.
The ATSIAP program actively encourages students to complete senior schooling, supports aspirations for tertiary education, builds team work and strengthens the link between school and university.
The program also gives students the opportunity to explore their own identities and that of their community.
If your school is interested in being involved for 2022, contact
atsiap@qed.qld.gov.au.