Two major Indigenous education organisations have announced they will merge together after working closely together for more than 20 years.
The Roberta Sykes Indigenous Education Foundation will be integrated into a suite of programs offered by the Aurora Education Foundation, which works to help First Nations students realise their full educational potential.
More than 100 First Nations students have been supported to further their education at overseas universities through scholarships disbursed by the organisations.
Aurora CEO and Wiradjuri woman Leila Smith said the organisation looks forward to honouring the legacy of Roberta’s activism, courage and commitment to change long into the future.
“We have always believed in the phenomenal potential of Indigenous students and the importance of building Indigenous leadership through education. These were core values of Roberta Sykes, who was not only a fierce advocate for Indigenous rights in Australia, but also a courageous ally, who was deeply committed to promoting Indigenous education opportunities through overseas study,” said Ms Smith.
“The Roberta Sykes Indigenous Education Foundation has demonstrated unwavering dedication to upholding Roberta’s legacy of activism, courage and a grassroots commitment to change, and we look forward to honouring this legacy long into the future.”
