Swinburne supports Keep It Clever campaign
In Summary
Swinburne University of Technology is supporting the national Keep It Clever, so we don’t get left behind campaign, in the lead-up to the Federal Budget in May.
The campaign, being run by Universities Australia, will highlight public awareness of university education and research to ensure Australia is not left behind in an increasingly competitive global environment.
Swinburne President and Vice Chancellor, Professor Linda Kristjanson, said universities not only play an important role in providing education, but are also hubs for research and innovation.
“Education is integral to a sustainable future. It provides individuals and society with the greatest opportunity to reach their potential,” Professor Kristjanson said.
“Universities give back to the community through research and innovation, while international education is one of Australia’s biggest exports after the resources sector.
“For Australia to remain competitive, the workforce will need to be more qualified.”
Universities Australia estimates that Australian universities employ more than 110,000 people and directly contribute $23 billion to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
Australia sits in the bottom 20 per cent of advanced economies for public investment in universities, and the latest figures show public investment in tertiary education as a percentage of GDP is ranked 25th out of 30 advanced economies, according to Universities Australia.
The Keep It Clever campaign includes a web film, print, digital, outdoor and national television advertising. You can access the campaign to sign a petition and show your support, at Keep It Clever or go to their Facebook page.