Yesterday was Indigenous Literacy Day and this year’s theme is “Celebrating Stories, Cultures and Languages”. It provides the opportunity to celebrate the successes achieved through First Nations education programs.
In the heart of every culture lies its language, stories, and traditions, passed down through generations like cherished treasures. For Indigenous communities, the preservation of these cultural riches is not just a matter of pride but a vital necessity. Indigenous Literacy Day is an occasion to not only raise awareness about literacy challenges faced by Indigenous communities but also celebrate the power and impact of First Nations education programs. In a world that constantly evolves, these programs stand as pillars of cultural resilience and equity, bridging the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous education.
Donna Wright, Victorian Schools Marrung Leader and Principal of Bandiana Primary School in North East Victoria and recent nominee in the Ideagen Best First Nations Education Program Award, says that raising the profile of Indigenous culture through education today is about setting up future generations for the future we desire:
“I think most educators would agree that, if we are going to change cultural understanding and embrace improving Indigenous wellbeing, we change through the hearts and minds of young children.”
Donna shares that promoting educational programs centred around Indigenous learning, including art and dance as well as awarding annual scholarships, are just a few of the ways that Bandiana is empowering pride in indigenous education:
“We want all kids to be the best young learners that they can possibly be,” Donna explains, “and investing in their future is just one way we can do that. It is such a powerful message”.
The remainder of this article takes a deeper dive into the numerous advantages that a First Nations education program has when it’s fully embraced in a schooling environment.
One of the significant strengths of First Nations education programs is their ongoing commitment to preserving Indigenous languages and cultures. By incorporating Indigenous languages into the curriculum and teaching practices, these programs not only preserve linguistic diversity but also foster a sense of pride and identity among Indigenous students.
Nominees for the Best First Nations Education Program Award including Indigenous Community Liaison Officer at Palm Beach Currumbin State High School, Trish Borg, has firsthand experience highlighting the significance of not only directing Indigenous education initiatives towards Indigenous children but also ensuring that non-Indigenous students and educators can fully embrace the rich culture and advantages offered by these programs. “These initiatives should embrace perspectives from all communities to foster a more inclusive and diverse educational setting”, Trish explains. Incorporating Indigenous languages into the curriculum and teaching practices, for example, reinforces the idea that preserving Indigenous languages and cultures is not just a responsibility solely for Indigenous children, but a collective effort that fosters an inclusive and diverse educational setting for all.
First Nations education programs prioritise community engagement, involving parents, elders, and community members in the educational journey of Indigenous students. This collaboration ensures that the education provided is relevant, responsive, and respectful of community values and aspirations.
A study conducted by the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies revealed that Indigenous students who participated in culturally responsive, holistic education programs demonstrated increased cultural connectedness by 23 per cent.
What’s more, by actively involving the community, these programs empower Indigenous students to take pride in their heritage and become leaders within their communities. The winner of the Best First Nations Education Program Award, Marble Bar Primary School from Western Australia, has demonstrated the effectiveness of community engagement by implementing the Eon Foundation Edible Garden program. A program aiming to reduce preventable and chronic diseases because of poor nutrition in remote areas, Marble Bar Primary School is proudly growing 12-15 indigenous and non-indigenous fruits and vegetables in their school’s garden, despite their difficult climatic conditions. The produce from the garden is used in a range of ways, including producing healthy meals for students and giving back to their local community. By involving students, parents, and the broader community in the process, the program promotes community engagement and empowerment, fosters a connection to the land and promotes healthy diets. Such programs are crucial to ensuring that Indigenous students receive a culturally relevant education that meets their unique needs and promotes positive community engagement.
First Nations education programs also work to address and rectify the educational disparities faced by Indigenous students. These programs advocate for equitable funding, resources, and support to ensure that Indigenous students have access to the same educational opportunities as their non-Indigenous peers.
To help continue to bridge the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous education, celebrations such as Indigenous Literacy Day 2023 provide the opportunity to celebrate the successes achieved through First Nations education programs. Actively combatting educational disparities, this day is a great way to celebrate the accomplishments of Indigenous students, educators, and communities who have made significant strides in overcoming educational barriers. The day also serves as a catalyst for collaboration between Indigenous communities, educational institutions, governments, and the wider public to continue supporting and strengthening First Nations education programs.
Any and all programs which you chose to implement within your school will help to empower Indigenous students to succeed academically, while also fostering a strong sense of identity and pride.
Let us celebrate and support First Nations education programs as they pave the way towards a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape for Indigenous learners.