11 June : Worried over the prospect of losing foreign students in the wake of racist attacks on Indians down under, Australian universities have come up with a ten-point action plan for safety of students from outside.
Universities Australia, an association of Australian universities, met in Canberra on June four and five to discuss the safety measures for Indian students and came up with the action plan, a statement issued by Australian High Commission said.As per the plan, the universities will collaborate with local law enforcement authorities to increase level of security for Indians.
The institutions will enhance campus-based student support programme in health, counselling and employment services and expand specific safety programmes.
They will encourage campus and national student leadership to take pro-active role in representing and supporting international students, the statement added.
They will develop fully integrated communication processes to advise and support students on living and studying in Australia.
The universities will cooperate government, local authorities and housing industry representatives to ensure availability of affordable and secure accommodation for all students.
The universities advocate that the state and territory authorities should make available travel concessions for all students to help enhance their safety and security when moving between campuses, accommodation and workplaces and improve transport safety, the statement said.
These institutions will expand the provision of information by all education providers on student security and safety.
They will reinforce strategies for integration of students of all nationalities and backgrounds in the campuses and promote greater understanding of international cultures and languages in Australia.