BY OLIVIA GOELDNER
The beloved Wollotuka Institute will be celebrating its 40th anniversary at the University of Newcastle today.
Beginning in 1983, Wollotuka originated as a support program for Indigenous students and has grown to be a pioneering example of First Nations excellence.
The University of Newcastle now leads the country in Indigenous student enrolment, support and retention.
The milestone will be celebrated across two events, a public event and an invitational dinner, to be held at the University's Callaghan campus this month.
Jordan Perry from the Wollotuka Institute says the hard work of those involved is worth celebrating.
"We're looking after students, setting ground-breaking research agendas and also teaching the new generation coming through," he said.
He said cultural safety is of the upmost importance for First Nations students.
"Having Wollotuka here and having that hub where they can feel at home amongst their people is the most important thing to me."
