Professor Natalie Brown is Pro-Vice Chancellor (North) and Executive Dean (Regional Education) at the University of Tasmania, Australia. Beginning her career as a teacher of Science and Mathematics, Professor Brown has had a 25 year career as an academic in Science Education, Higher Education Learning, Teaching and Assessment and more recently Academic Governance and Quality Assurance. Her current role is focussed on the University of Tasmania’s mission to increase participation in Higher Education in Tasmania, especially in the Regions. She has a strong interest in promoting equity, and works with Government, Industry and Community to increase educational attainment and success.

Abstract:

There is an ever increasing demand for skilled professionals for today’s world, and this means we need to encourage more people to engage with higher education. We have seen this reflected in policy directions of governments across the world, with universities needing to respond to this through welcoming a greater diversity of students into their courses. Providing an inclusive higher education experience has never been more important to set up our students for success and the principles of Universal Design are a useful frame for universities to use. The relevance of Universal Design Principles for education will be briefly covered, followed by a virtual tour of our new campus here in Launceston so you can see how we have tried to reflect these principles in our buildings. The three Universal Design for Learning pillars will then be used as a basis for this discussion of the learning and teaching experience, concluding with revisiting a very practical approach to inclusive teaching that can be immediately implemented.

Professor Ts. Dr. Effendi Bin Mohamad is a respected academic known for his deep expertise in engineering and management. With a career that bridges both industry and academia, he has worn many hats—from Process Engineer and Industrial Engineer to Tutor, Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, and Head of Department.

His commitment to teaching and research shines through his work, including his time as a Visiting Professor at the University of Brawijaya, Indonesia. Currently, Dr. Effendi is the Director of the Center Collaboration Management RICE UTeM-Melaka, where he excels in building strong industry-academia partnerships and engaging with the community. His diverse experience and leadership make him a valuable asset to both fields.   

Abstract:

In an increasingly interconnected world, higher education institutions play a transformative role in fostering sustainable development that extends beyond the confines of academia. This keynote addresses the concept of Knowledge Sustainability—the practice of sharing, applying, and co-creating knowledge to empower communities, drive innovation, and tackle pressing societal challenges.

By integrating research, education, and community engagement, universities can act as catalysts for positive change. Examples from global initiatives illustrate how knowledge transfer programs, STEM education outreach, and sustainable technology projects bridge the gap between academia and society. These initiatives enable communities to build resilience, embrace inclusivity, and thrive in the face of evolving economic and environmental challenges.

This session will explore strategies for aligning academic endeavors with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing partnerships across sectors to achieve a greater impact. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped with practical approaches to amplify the role of academia in co-creating a sustainable and equitable future for all.