UQ Vice-Chancellor speaks at open forum on cultural diversity

University of Queensland Vice-Chancellor Professor John Hay has invited all students of the University to an open forum this month to explain the university's commitment to cultural diversity and its opposition to racism.

Professor Hay will also answer questions and discuss any concerns raised by students at the forum at Mayne Hall, St Lucia on July 30 at 3pm.

Last month the University's Academic Board reaffirmed its absolute commitment to equity and cultural diversity and its opposition to racism.

A statement signed by all Queensland Vice-Chancellors has been sent to the editors of major Asian newspapers, repudiating politics based on race and affirming commitment of the internationalisation of higher education.

University Director of International Education Chris Madden said the forum was part of a series of initiatives to emphasise the University's long tradition of welcoming students and staff from other cultures which enhanced the quality of academic life and scholarship.

"I expect most international students will attend, to hear the Vice-Chancellor explain the University's stance on issues arising from the recent election and seek student views," he said.

"The University currently has 2089 international students who enrich our cultural diversity as well as generating significant funds in direct economic benefit."

Mr Madden said University of Queensland new international enrolments for second semester 1998 had actually increased more than 13 percent on the same period last year, although he said the increase would have been larger without the current debate.

413 new international students are expected for second term, compared with 365 new students last year. All but 34 students will study on-shore in Australia, most at the St Lucia campus.

Mr Madden said there had also been a 108 percent increase in new international PhD students enrolled this semester, a very pleasing statistic that reflected the University's emphasis on research.

The University is working at grassroots levels with groups to increase sensitivity to the needs of its culturally diverse student population.

It is anticipated that these groups will include service industries (such as taxi drivers and real estate agents); international groups such as alumni, agents and parents; and young people in Australia, including UQ students and high school students.

The University's Staff Development Committee is funding cross-cultural awareness workshops for general, academic and research staff to increase awareness of cross-cultural issues within the University.

For further information, contact Professor Hay telephone 07 3365 1300 or Mr Madden, telephone 07 3365 1662.