First Nations Cultural Exchange Program

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First Nations students from northern NSW visited the University of Wollongong’s Woolyungah Indigenous Centre (WIC) in November 2025 as part of an educational pathway program designed to build community networks and showcase opportunities available in the Illawarra.

The visit formed part of a week-long tour that included local school visits, a meet-and-greet with the NRL Illawarra Dragons, and a surfing lesson. For many of the students from Boggabilla and Mungindi, this was their first time in the Illawarra region.

The program aims to connect students with higher education pathways, Indigenous mentors, and support services available to First Nations students at UOW.

Students were welcomed in the WIC yarning circle by WIC staff and student ambassadors. Staff introduced their roles at the university, while ambassadors spoke about their experiences as WIC representatives, their degrees, and their journeys living and studying off Country.

Before sharing a meal and continuing the yarning, students took part in a campus tour that showcased lecture halls, eateries, art exhibitions and nursing laboratories.

Following lunch, WIC ambassadors facilitated a cultural activity delivered through the My Future Matters Program in local high schools. The activity encourages sensory awareness and highlights traditional hunting skills.

To conclude the visit, each student received a small gift from WIC staff. Students expressed their gratitude and said they thoroughly enjoyed their time on campus.