Friends of VU Convenors and members attended a community forum on education in Melton on April 1st.
The forum heard of the many positive initiatives occurring in Melton, including $11.2 million funding announced in March by Minister Julia Gillard for a purpose built Trade Training Centre at the Victoria University site in Melton.
VU Vice Chancellor Professor Elizabeth Harman addressed the meeting and gave her perspective on the University Council’s decision to close the Melton and Sunbury campuses.
The Vice Chancellor also fielded a large number of questions from the audience.
While the Vice Chancellor should be commended for attending the meeting, it is regrettable that a dialogue with the Melton community commenced after the decision to close the campus was taken.
VU reiterated their position about campus closures and strengthening the remaining campuses. However, there was no real rationale provided for a decision to withdraw from one of Australia’s fastest growing regions.
Friends of VU congratulate the Shire of Melton on holding the forum. The evening succeeded in sharing information and starting a dialogue; in particular, VU’s responsibility to consult with the community on major decisions was discussed and agreed.
