VC column: 10 years of TAFE

Column piece published in CQ Today by Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Nick Klomp

As the old adage goes: ‘Time flies when you're having fun’. And for CQUniversity, the past 10 years have undoubtedly been a thrilling journey marked by growth, innovation and a steadfast commitment to educational excellence. 

This year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate a decade since our merger with CQ TAFE - a union that has re-shaped the landscape of higher education in Central Queensland and beyond.

A decade ago, the merger wasn't just about combining 175 years of experience in the delivery of education and training – it was about driving new pathways in our regions that seamlessly integrated vocational and higher education, fostering a holistic approach to learning. 

This bold endeavour aimed to provide students with a seamless educational experience, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and practical training needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

Looking back over the past 10 years, it's clear that the merger has yielded remarkable results. We’ve been able to expand our course offerings, diversify our programs and strengthen our ties with industry partners – all while standing tall as Queensland’s only dual sector university.

The integration of vocational and higher education has revolutionised our educational approach. Students, spanning from trades training to PhDs now benefit from a diverse range of tailored pathways, aligned with their individual needs and aspirations. 

This integration has not only enriched our educational offerings but also enabled us to meet the escalating demands from industry for versatile, skilled professionals across various fields. But most importantly, the merger has had a transformative impact on the lives of our students. 

For many, CQUniversity has provided not just an education, but a sense of belonging - a supportive community where dreams are nurtured and ambitions are realised. Whether pursuing a vocational education and training qualification, an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree, students have found a home at CQUniversity - a place where they are empowered to succeed, both academically and personally.

We will be celebrating the merger milestone by recognising the dedication and hard work of all those who have contributed to the success of CQUniversity over the past decade. 

From current students to staff, our alumni and supporters, each individual has played a vital role in shaping our institution to be one that makes lifechanging impact. 

Looking ahead, the future is bright for CQUniversity as it continues to build on the foundation laid by the merger with CQ TAFE. 

As we raise our glasses to toast this remarkable milestone, let us celebrate not just the achievements of the past 10 years, but the boundless potential of the decade to come.