Dean's Report

Research Review

Last Friday I attended a meeting of the MGSE research centres directors where we discussed the future of research at MGSE and the strategies we will focus on, as outlined in the Strategic Plan Implementation Plans and the Research Review. We also discussed the current review we are undertaking with KPMG of MGSE’s operating environment and support for research centres. This review is distinct from the regular five-yearly review of research centres required under University policy. KPMG is particularly focusing on how our financial and administrative policies and practices support MGSE research centres, and the ways in which MGSE can support the future success and sustainability of our research centres.

Visit from Brad Rowswell MP

Last week the University and MGSE hosted a visit by Brad Rowswell MP, the Victorian Shadow Assistant Minister for Education. After a tour of MGSE’s teaching facilities we held a lively round table discussion with senior academics from MGSE. Brad displayed an acute understanding of the contemporary issues in education asking questions which ranged across educational policy, leadership development, models of successful school leadership, staff and student welfare and the critical need for strengthening STEM education in schools. He is keen to engage in an ongoing dialogue with MGSE which, of course, we welcome.

Vice-Chancellor's lunch

I recently attended a Vice-Chancellor’s lunch with the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation where part of the discussions focused on how MGSE may be able to support some of the Corporation’s academic initiatives. Over the coming months we will pursue further engagement with the Corporation including inviting them to MGSE to talk about opportunities for collaboration.

Donating blood

Last week I gave my quarterly blood donation at the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, something I have been doing since I was in my early thirties. Each time I attend it reminds me of what a simple but important donation this can be. Donated blood can be made into 22 different medical treatments and is used, for example, for people with cancer and blood diseases and for surgical, trauma and obstetrics patients. I encourage MGSE staff to think about donating blood, particularly those who haven’t done so before. There are centres across Melbourne and, as the Red Cross says, each donation can save three lives.