Latest news with #TEQSA
ABC News
2 days ago
- Business
- ABC News
Regulator demands Australian National University defend council conduct amid governance concerns
A federal government investigation into Australian National University (ANU) has demanded the university defend the conduct of its council members amid concerns they failed to competently oversee the institution's operations. A letter from the higher education regulator to ANU Vice-Chancellor Genevieve Bell in June revealed more detail about a compliance assessment being undertaken by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA). "TEQSA is concerned [the ANU Council] may not have fulfilled its obligation to exercise competent governance oversight of, and be accountable for, all ANU's operations," the letter said. TEQSA began investigating compliance concerns at ANU in October 2024, but did not commence its formal compliance assessment until June. Its investigation had initially been limited to assessing ANU's Nixon Review and its proposed staff cuts, along with grades in the ANU School of Cybernetics. The letter outlined its investigation had been expanded to include "broader risks to compliance" including the culture of the ANU Council and executive leadership, and oversight of its financial position. "Further information has been considered which suggests there are broader potential risks to compliance that require assessment by TEQSA," the letter said. TEQSA's letter spelled out issues such as staff afraid to voice concerns about decisions by senior leadership, the management of staff cuts, the internal culture of the ANU Council and leadership, and poor accountability of workplace practices. The letter, authored by TEQSA CEO Mary Russell, also specified fears about the ANU Council's oversight of the university's financial position, which included the institution's pursuit to find $250 million in savings by 2026. "Whilst steps are being taken to address ANU's current financial position, it was under the ANU Council's oversight that ANU reached a position that now requires it to reduce recurring expenditure by $250 million," the letter said. On Tuesday, ANU was forced to respond to allegations that council members, including Chancellor Julie Bishop, had threatened, harassed and bullied staff-elected council member Dr Liz Allen. The ANU demographer told a Senate inquiry investigating governance in Australia's higher education providers that the stress from her time on the council and a meeting with Ms Bishop led to her contemplating suicide and contributed to the miscarriage of a much-wanted baby. Ms Bishop has denied any wrongdoing and said she rejected "any suggestion that I have engaged with council members, staff, students and observers in any way other than with respect, courtesy and civility". The letter from TEQSA, which was tabled as part of the inquiry, asked the university to provide a self-assurance report as part of its compliance assessment. In a staff newsletter from July, ANU said the self-assurance report "is a valuable opportunity to demonstrate the strength of our internal processes and continue our long-standing, constructive relationship with TEQSA". The ANU Council is the governing body of the university and is made up of 15 members, chaired by Ms Bishop through her role as chancellor. Professor Bell also sits on the council. Six members are elected by groups within the ANU community — two academic staff, one professional staff member, a postgraduate student, an undergraduate student, and a dean or research school head. Seven external members are appointed by the federal education minister. One of the academic staff positions is currently vacant after the resignation of Francis Markham due to what he described as "concerns about governance practices within the council". Council minutes show Ms Bishop formally informed the council of TEQSA's investigation during its July meeting. In response, one council member requested access to independent legal advice to inform them of their responsibilities throughout the process. The minutes show Ms Bishop arranged for the legal advice, provided by an external legal firm, to be distributed to all council members at an estimated cost of $15,000. An inquiry hearing in Canberra on Tuesday revealed the university would not meet TEQSA's original deadline of August 12 for the self-assurance report to be provided. It has been granted an extension to August 19. "It should demonstrate how ANU monitors, manages and mitigates institutional risks with regard to the concerns identified in this letter," TEQSA said. "The self-assurance report will be one part of the information TEQSA considers." On Tuesday, Dr Russell could not say how long TEQSA's process would take but said it would be "quite lengthy". "[That's] due to the complexity of the matters and the importance, as we see it, of making sure that we provide every opportunity to staff, students, other stakeholders and members of the university community to share their concerns and for us to make sure that those are addressed in our process," she said. "At the moment we haven't encountered anything in dealing with the ANU inquiries that we cannot manage within our existing powers. We have compulsive powers to require evidence, if that is not offered or afforded by a university. "We have power to impose conditions on the university if we feel that that is necessary." Dr Russell was also asked by ACT independent senator David Pocock about reports regarding a disproportionately high number of students receiving high distinctions in the School of Cybernetics, the specialty interest of Professor Bell. "That's one of the issues that has been raised with us. That is already part of our inquiries," Dr Russell said. TEQSA said it was in the process of engaging assistance from an independent expert as part of the compliance assessment.
Business Standard
15-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Sukh Sandhu Honoured with 'Advocate of the Year for Auditing Reforms' at Fluxx Awards 2025
PNN Hong Kong, July 15: In a landmark recognition of reformative leadership in global education governance, Sukh Sandhu was awarded the prestigious title of Advocate of the Year for Auditing Reforms - Education Category at the 2025 Fluxx Awards, held on June 5-6 in Hong Kong. The award honours Sandhu's pioneering contributions in transforming compliance and audit systems within the international education and training sector. Held annually, the Fluxx Awards spotlight global changemakers leading with impact, innovation, and integrity. Sandhu was recognised for redefining compliance from a bureaucratic obligation into a strategic tool for institutional excellence, accountability, and innovation. As the Founder and Executive Director of Compliance and Quality Assurance (CAQA) and Career Calling International, Sandhu has led transformative initiatives across Australia's education sector. His strategic frameworks have supported thousands of Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), TAFEs, Higher Education Providers, and international institutions in navigating complex regulatory landscapes under ASQA, TEQSA, CRICOS, and ISO standards. Under his leadership, CAQA has developed more than 77,900 resources and auditing tools, dramatically reducing audit preparation time while enhancing transparency, consistency, and performance. His system-centred auditing approach--emphasising integrity, outcome-based evaluation, and scalability--has been adopted widely, setting new benchmarks for the industry. A strong advocate for ethical and technology-driven governance, Sandhu is also driving innovations in AI-powered compliance tools, blockchain-based digital credentialing, and cybersecurity frameworks. These initiatives aim to create borderless, verifiable education systems that protect learners while empowering institutions to meet evolving global standards. In addition to his operational leadership, Sandhu serves as Editor-in-Chief of The VET Sector magazine, where he continues to influence public discourse on quality education, regulatory reform, and sectoral transformation. Sandhu's recognition at the Fluxx Awards adds to a long list of international accolades, including the Burj CEO Award, Mark of Excellence, and inclusion in the Top 100 Global Educators. Despite these honours, the emphasis remains on impact: transforming systems to ensure education remains accessible, ethical, and future-ready. As education sectors worldwide navigate digital disruption and increasing regulatory scrutiny, leaders like Sukh Sandhu are shaping the future, where compliance becomes a catalyst for innovation and trust. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Sky News AU
10-07-2025
- Politics
- Sky News AU
'I will be putting them to the task': Special Antisemitism Envoy Jillian Segal demands full cooperation from university executives
Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism Jillian Segal has ordered university chancellors and vice-chancellors to cooperate fully with her plan to stamp out antisemitism on campuses. Ms Segal handed down a major report on Thursday, just one year after the business executive was appointed as Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism. The report outlines a series of measures needed in order to combat antisemitism, which it claimed had 'reached a tipping point that threatens social harmony, undermines trust in institutions and marginalises Jewish Australian citizens'. Speaking to Sky News host Sharri Markson, Ms Segal said it was her plan to delegate work for 'different parties', especially the federal and state government, and educational and cultural institutions. ' There's support I will need from the federal government, but also from state governments, also from leaders in society, leaders of cultural institutions, chancellors and vice-chancellors at universities,' she said. 'I will be putting them to the task of supporting me when I need federal government support, but equally I'll be looking to state governments to support educational initiatives. 'I'll looking to universities to continue what has been very cooperative stance from them in moving towards initiatives to combat antisemitism on campuses.' Ms Segal said Education Minister Jason Clare will convene a meeting of education ministers for her to speak to them on implementing a plan to end hate on campuses. The special envoy added she was 'in touch' with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) about universities and had its 'full cooperation'. In addition to university leaders, Ms Segal also vowed to call out the Albanese government if they did not support her efforts. 'As I said today, when launching it with the Prime Minister, I will be reporting on it at the end of the first year, and if I haven't had cooperation from everyone who I need cooperation from, I will be calling it out,' she said. Ms Segal explained there had been a lot of support from the education sector so far and a taskforce had been established in Victoria where she hoped there would be 'immediate action'. 'I'm hopeful of making progress every single day,' she said. The special envoy added a 'raft' of new legislation was in for consultation or had passed, including Nazi symbol bans and doxxing laws. 'But some legislation related to hatred needs to be strengthened,' she said. 'The argument is that it's new legislation and it needs to be tested and my point is you need strong laws but you need police to do the policing and prosecutors to prosecute and then judges to sentence.' Ms Segal said antisemitism was an 'evil that eats away at our society' which will 'undo us all' unless it is stamped out.
Khaleej Times
23-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
SAE University College Dubai opens admissions for project-based Bachelor of Computer Science
SAE University College Dubai is now accepting applications for its Bachelor of Computer Science program, starting September 2025. This Australian-accredited degree takes a hands-on, project-based approach to learning. There are no written exams, just real-world work that builds a job-ready portfolio. From the first trimester, students create functional software using professional tools and workflows. They present their work, collaborate across teams, and graduate with skills that employers value. No memorisation. No theory overload. Just hands-on experience from day one. Each student is guaranteed an industry internship, giving them direct access to real tech environments before graduation. It's structured for the workplace, not just the classroom. There's no requirement for math or science grades. This programme is open to students from any academic background, especially those who think creatively, enjoy solving problems, and want to learn by doing. Collaboration is built in. Computer Science students work alongside peers in Design, Animation, Audio, Film, and Games. It reflects how real-world creative tech teams operate. SAE has over 40 campuses in 20 countries and has been delivering creative media and tech education for more than 45 years. Degrees from SAE Dubai are accredited by Australia's Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA). The Dubai campus is also licensed in the UAE by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The Bachelor of Computer Science is one of several industry-focused degrees offered at SAE Dubai. For those who do not meet direct entry requirements, the one-year foundation programme offers a pathway into a bachelor's degree. Applications are now open for all bachelor's and foundation programme starting September 2025. For more information, visit the website:
Khaleej Times
25-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
SP Jain's Master of AI in business degree prepares leaders for the digital economy
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant frontier; it is reshaping industries and driving economic transformation worldwide. As businesses increasingly integrate AI to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and fuel innovation, the demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between AI and business strategy has never been greater. SP Jain School of Global Management is positioning itself at the forefront of this shift, equipping future leaders with the skills needed to navigate the AI-driven economy. Established in 2004, the institution has built a strong reputation for cutting-edge education, with a major presence in Dubai. Its prestigious accreditations, such as TEQSA (Australia), underscore its commitment to producing graduates who can thrive in an evolving business landscape shaped by AI. The UAE has emerged as a global leader in AI innovation, with Dubai spearheading initiatives to integrate AI across industries. The UAE's National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 aims to position the country as a global AI hub, fostering innovation and developing human capital to lead in this space. The UAE Government's commitment to AI is further exemplified by the establishment of a dedicated Ministry for Artificial Intelligence, led by Omar Sultan Al Olama, the Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Economy. A major focus of the strategy is ensuring the right talent pipeline, leading to new visa categories and policies that prioritise AI professionals, including Golden Visas for AI graduates and working professionals. The UAE has also launched an AI and coding license in collaboration with the UAE Artificial Intelligence Office to attract AI companies and startups to the region. Additionally, the National Program for Coders seeks to issue 100,000 Golden Visas and establish 1,000 AI companies, further reinforcing the country's commitment to fostering AI talent and innovation. SP Jain's Master of AI in Business (MAIB) is a full-time, two-year master's degree offered in Dubai, designed to meet the growing demand for AI-driven business leaders. The interdisciplinary programme integrates advanced business education with fundamental AI principles, ensuring graduates possess both technical expertise and strategic insight. Students gain hands-on experience through real-world projects in sectors such as retail, finance, and manufacturing, applying AI solutions to complex business challenges. A defining feature of the degree is its strong industry connections in Dubai, providing students with valuable exposure to the region's thriving AI ecosystem. Through partnerships with leading companies, guest lectures, and internship opportunities, students gain firsthand experience in implementing AI-driven business strategies. "As the world enters the next wave of technological advancement, understanding AI is no longer enough — true leaders must harness its power to drive strategic business solutions. At SP Jain, we empower our students with the skills and expertise to lead this transformation, equipping them to navigate and shape the AI-driven future of organisations," said Dr Debashis Guha, associate professor and director of the Master of AI in Business degree. Graduates of the MAIB programme have gone on to secure impressive roles in the industry, with strong earning potential. Notably, the highest-paid graduate from the Dubai cohort is employed at First Abu Dhabi Bank, earning Dh120,000, which translates to AUD 69,400 when adjusted for cost-of-living differences. This underscores the program's ability to prepare students for lucrative and impactful careers in AI-driven business environments. Akash Ramdev, an alumnus of the MAIB 2021 cohort and Data Analyst, First Abu Dhabi Bank shared his journey: "The MAIB degree at SP Jain provided a comprehensive foundation in AI methodologies and their business applications. The curriculum covered machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, deep learning, and AI-driven decision systems, supplemented by hands-on industry projects and case studies. After completing the programme, I secured a role as a Data Analyst in the Marketing team at First Abu Dhabi Bank, where I apply AI-driven analytics to optimise campaigns. The hands-on learning experience enabled a smooth transition into this role, equipping me with the technical and analytical skills essential for AI-driven business strategies." As AI continues to redefine industries, the need for leaders who can translate AI capabilities into business success is becoming increasingly critical. SP Jain's MAIB degree offers a comprehensive pathway for professionals looking to leverage AI in leadership roles, whether in established corporations or AI-driven startups. For those ready to shape the future of business through AI, SP Jain's MAIB degree provides the platform to develop the expertise and vision needed to lead in the digital economy.
