Griffith University’s GUMURRII Student Support Unit has been honoured at the 2013 Australian Awards for University Teaching.

Announced in Canberra, GUMURRII received the award for Programs that Enhance Learning in the Widening Participation category.

Federal Minister for Education, The Honourable Christopher Pyne MP, said: “The GUMURRII Student Support Unit has been recognised as making an outstanding contribution to the quality of student learning and student experience in higher education, and setting a benchmark for similar programs.”

Vice Chancellor Professor Ian O’Connor said Griffith had the highest number of undergraduate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander completions and was among the nation’s leading universities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander enrolments.

“With a physical presence on each of Griffith’s five campuses, GUMURRII SSU provides a ‘hub’ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, fostering a sense of community, enabling them to experience social and cultural activities and providing access to learning resources and personal support,” he said.

Director of GUMURRII, Ms Bronwyn Dillon, said the award recognised the dedication and commitment of the Unit’s staff.

“They contribute to the success and excel at providing appropriate and collaborative support systems for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at Griffith University,” Ms Dillon said.

“We are all honoured to be recognised and will strive to continue to deliver programs of excellence.”

The Australian Awards for University Teaching are designed to recognise quality teaching practice and outstanding contributions to student learning.