The Engagement of an Urban-Based, Comprehensive University with Rural Communities

Abstract

The University of Sydney has a long-standing record of commitment to social inclusion in tertiary education. The Australian government agenda has brought into sharp focus the importance of universities engaging with rural and remote communities. The University of Sydney provides placement opportunities and pathways to attract more undergraduate students from rural and remote backgrounds. To facilitate interdisciplinary placement opportunities, the establishment of rural hubs has proven to be an effective model for creating inter-professional learning and interactions. Such learning and interactions develop students' self-awareness and worldliness, and it benefits rural communities by providing professionals-in-training for short periods and by increasing the possibility of these students taking up full-time employment in rural areas upon graduation.