Murdoch University’s Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre has launched a unique program that celebrates Nyungar culture, community, and people.
The only one of its kind in Western Australia, Wanju Boodjah is a five-week, six-credit course in which students will learn about Nyungar spirituality, mythology, cosmology, language, people/community, art, history, dancing, storytelling meteorology and cartography. Australian and international students are encouraged to attend.
Kulbardi Centre Director Professor Rhonda Marriott said Murdoch University was proud to be the only university in Western Australia to provide such an important Nyungar cultural learning opportunity for all students.
“It is important to acknowledge that Murdoch University is on Nyungar land and we pay respects to Nyungar elders past and present”, she said.
“We are especially honoured that Dr Noel Nannup provided us his blessing and welcomed us to country this afternoon. The performance by the Wadumbah Dance Group was also an important introduction to Nyungar culture for our students.”
Prof Marriott said one of the unique features of the program is the introduction of a range of Indigenous and non-Indigenous guest lecturers, as well as field trips.
“We are also privileged that Nyungar elder Eric Hayward has organised a key component of this learning experience, by coordinating and guiding us on a cultural tour of the south west. This on-country learning experience is a transformational learning opportunity for our students,” she said.
Prof Marriott said 2011 had so far been an exciting year for the Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre and the launch of Wanju Boodjah shows a continued commitment to providing supportive quality learning experiences for all of the students.
