When higher education means moving 1,600 kilometres away, many young people in the Pilbara face a tough choice: leave their families and community behind or miss out on a university education.
Founded in 2019, Pilbara Kimberley University Centres (PKUC) seeks to address this problem, partnering with a range of training providers and Universities to deliver world-class education in the Pilbara and Kimberley.
BCI Minerals is proud to extend its funding for two scholarships with PKUC, which will support students residing in the City of Karratha or Onslow.
Five students will be able to access $1,000 through two scholarships. These scholarships will support recent high school graduates and those undertaking studies in the field of Allied Health or Nursing.
Last year, BCI’s funding helped support three students, including Anasis Stott, Rachel Thorn and Jessie Denise Jalil.
PKUC Student Services and Operations Manager Joanne Muller said it’s great to see what students can achieve when they’re supported.
“Our mission is simple, we want to grow our own,” she said.
“One of our students is the perfect example of that. She went to school here in Karratha, completed our uni prep course, and is now studying nursing full time.
“These scholarships mean people like her can stay close to their families and get a job that supports local services.”
BCI Minerals Head of External Affairs Tammie Miller was pleased to extend the scholarship funding.
“Strong communities are built through opportunity, and education is one of the most powerful opportunities you can offer,” she said.
“As our Mardie salt operation moves forward, it’s important local communities grow alongside it.”
“We’re proud to partner with PKUC, an organisation doing amazing work to deliver world-class education in the Pilbara. Together, we’re making it possible for young people to stay local and thrive.”
Applications for PKUC’s scholarships are now open. Click here to find out more.