Funding boost for KIOSC welcomed
In Summary
Swinburne University of Technology has welcomed $1 million in funding per annum for operational costs for the Knox Innovation, Opportunity and Sustainability Centre (KIOSC) announced by Victorian Opposition leader Daniel Andrews, if elected at the November state election this year.
The high-tech learning centre, located at Swinburne’s Wantirna campus, includes a range of technology-rich collaborative areas, a presentation ‘simulation' space and several laboratories.
Swinburne President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Linda Kristjanson, welcomed the announcement saying that it reinforced the importance of practical learning experiences.
“This funding will boost KIOSC’s capacity to provide secondary students with powerful and unique learning tools,” Professor Kristjanson said.
“Students from secondary schools around the area are able to visit the Discovery Centre to engage in inquiry, learning and interact with technologies that open up their eyes to careers and pathways that will give them a more productive and sustainable future.”
KIOSC also features a Trade Training Centre that offers a range of programs including VCE specialist studies and nationally recognised vocational qualifications in science, technology, engineering, electro technology, art and design.
KIOSC director, Kate Kent Evans said the facility is the result of a unique partnership between the university and the Knox Consortium of Schools, supported by the City of Knox.
“Focussing on environmentally sustainable skills, KIOSC provides students with practical and innovative learning experiences, linking them with industry groups, government agencies and the local community,” Ms Kent Evans said.
"KIOSC is all about connecting students to their futures."