CSIRO invests $500K to help Indigenous students pursue futures in STEM

CSIRO has announced that it has bestowed more than half a million dollars upon the University of Wollongong (UOW) to enable more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to pursue a future in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

The CSIRO Indigenous STEM Scholarship was first established in 2019 with the help of a $30,000 gift from the organisation to support two Indigenous STEM students throughout their studies. The scholarship will now be awarded in perpetuity following a further $500,000 gift from CSIRO.

This is part of CSIRO’s commitment to supporting the pipeline of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent which saw the agency contribute more than $5 million to Indigenous STEM scholarships this year.

The partnership between CSIRO and UOW will provide one new scholar with $5000 each year for the duration of their degree. It is aimed at Indigenous students who are undertaking a full-time science, technology, engineering or mathematics degree.

Zara Button, who is studying a Bachelor of Environmental Science (Honours), was the 2021 recipient of the CSIRO Indigenous STEM Scholarship and said the financial support of the scholarship has enabled her to focus on her future career and her wellbeing.

“The money from the CSIRO scholarship means I have been able to work less and spend more time doing meaningful activities that could further my career or health. It has also given me confidence in myself that my hard efforts are being recognised,” Button said. “I would like to thank the CSIRO for donating generous amounts of money to Indigenous STEM students like me. The money goes a long way in supporting my studies and encouraging me to keep going with it.

“It is so important to utilise Indigenous knowledge in all faculties, including in STEM, whether it be in the bushfire research I am involved with, or medicine and other areas.”

Dr Chris Bourke, a Gamillaroi man and Director of Indigenous Science and Engagement at CSIRO, said the organisation was delighted to be providing practical support to nurture the next generation of Indigenous STEM superstars.

“Growing an Indigenous STEM pipeline will enable the science and technology sector, and CSIRO in particular, to engage with Indigenous talent, embed Indigenous knowledge and expertise and to foster thriving careers in science and research for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” he said. “These scholarships are a very practical step because we know that adequate financial support for Indigenous university students is a key factor to overcoming barriers to entry and success in higher education.”

Professor Patricia Davidson, UOW Vice-Chancellor and President, said the partnership between the University and the CSIRO would foster the next generation of Indigenous talent in STEM.

“The CSIRO scholarships will enable students to explore and expand on their interests in STEM, fields that are vital to the future of our communities, our economy and our nation, without fear of financial stress,” she said. “This significant investment demonstrates the true power of philanthropy, by enriching the lives of Indigenous students and setting them up for a bright and prosperous future.”

Image caption: The CSIRO Indigenous STEM Scholarship will provide opportunities for Indigenous students to explore careers in STEM. Image credit: ©Paul Jones.