First for 2009

Dear Colleagues,

Welcome to academic year 2009. I’ve been back for a few weeks now, as have many in our community. Of course, there are those who worked through to progress their research in the quieter period, to ensure that we had students in place and so that our facilities would be ready for the New Year. Thanks to all those who have been working over the summer – I trust you have the opportunity for a break soon.

2009 will be a big year for higher education and for James Cook University. Most of all, this week is the opportunity to welcome new students and welcome back to campus continuing students. I think we are lucky as an industry that every year we have the opportunity to start fresh. From my perspective, the energy and enthusiasm brought to our campuses by incoming students is invigorating and a regular reminder of the importance of our activities.

Of course, there is the Global Financial Crisis. The global economy has deteriorated even since my last post in December 2008. We are in uncharted waters and it is difficult to know how long these tough times will last or to anticipate just how difficult they might become.

Interestingly, in tough times, when labour markets weaken, there is often a flight to education. Upgrading skills holds in prospect a more favourable position in the labour force. I think we may be seeing the beginning of this effect in our backyard.

Certainly, we have seen welcome, additional support for the sector from the Federal Government. As far as JCU is concerned, we received a share of an unexpected funding pool to assist with our infrastructure needs. More recently, we received some additional funding in recognition of our efforts in teaching and learning – not a huge sum, but very welcome all the same.

The Federal Government is releasing further capital funds for ‘shovel ready’ projects as part of its big infrastructure spend. The Government’s response to the Bradley and Cutler Review reports is being finalized and while the current context means there is likely to be less funding available in aggregate than there might have been, the sector continues to press the case for support. Certainly both review reports express a profound understanding of the need for additional support. The challenge will be to see that turned into reality.

So onwards, into 2009. The global context of our operation is without recent precedent. There will be challenges and opportunities for us in the current environment. But, the way I see it, our historic role endures and has become even more important. What we do matters.

Remember, there is now an intranet staff discussion site available to all. You can access this at www.jcu.edu.au/discuss . Please feel free to comment on this article, start a conversation or simply to contribute.

Cheers,
Sandra