Coalition's Gosford commitment welcomed

Wednesday, 28 August 2013

University of Newcastle welcomes bipartisan commitment to higher education in Gosford

The University of Newcastle has welcomed the Coalition's support for the commitment of $7 million to fund the development of a new library and learning facility in the Gosford CBD announced as part of its Growth Plan for the Central Coast.

Developed in partnership with Gosford City Council, the state-of-the-art community facility will house new UON Central Coast pathway programs to support students entering university.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Caroline McMillen, said yesterday's announcement of bipartisan support to develop a state-of-the-art education and innovation facility was a recognition of the investment needed to develop the skills and capacity of the Central Coast, and ensure the region achieves its potential.

"As the lead provider of higher education in the region, the University of Newcastle has built university attainment on the Central Coast for more than two decades. This success is reflected in the 24 per cent growth in local enrolments since 2008, with the University now educating 4,300 students on the Central Coast.

"Building on this strong base, we are further expanding our presence on the Central Coast. Through our new Gosford location, UON Central Coast will provide a next-generation flexible teaching, learning and engagement environment in the heart of the CBD.

"UON Central Coast will offer pathway programs that support students from all walks of life and at different stages of their learning to transition successfully into a university education."

The development will also be the headquarters for the UON Research and Innovation Hub, which will provide a focal point for collaboration between the University's researchers, and business and industry on the Central Coast.

"The UON Central Coast Research and Innovation Hub will provide a rich resource for the region's businesses, giving them access to leading researchers in a 'one-stop-shop'," Professor McMillen said.

"Ultimately, this will promote greater innovation in Gosford and across the Central Coast. Innovation will deliver economic growth and generate more jobs for the region, ensuring the Central Coast's economy continues to grow and thrive."

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  • Sharon Buckland, Media and Public Relations
  • Phone: +61 2 4985 4049

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