Four academics from the University of Western Australia have been recognized for their contributions to improving the student experience and teaching at the 2021 Australian Awards for University Teaching.

Dr. Ambelin Kwaymullina, a senior lecturer at UWA Law School, received awards in the ‘Society and Culture’ category and the Neville Bonner Award for Indigenous Education.

Three other UWA scholars were also recognized for their outstanding contributions to student learning: Associate Professor Elizabeth Quail, from the School of Molecular Sciences, Dr. Elfie Shiosaki, from the School of Indigenous Studies and Antony Gray, associate lecturer at the Business School. The citations highlight and reward the positive influences they have had not only on students, but also on staff.

Dr. Kwaymullina said she was delighted to receive national recognition.

Image: Dr Ambelin Kwaymullina is a senior lecturer at UWA Law School.

“Although the award is individual, it is a tribute to all the indigenous people who have gone before me,” said Dr Kwaymullina.

“It is their long advocacy for our people and their work in transforming the academy that makes my work possible.

“I hope this recognition can serve as an example of what can be achieved for all students when teaching and learning develops from respectful partnerships with Indigenous peoples.

Dr. Kwaymullina has been at the forefront of developing and disseminating content relating to First Nations peoples and transforming learning spaces to be respectful of Indigenous peoples, knowledge and cultures.

It’s a topic close to home for Dr Kwaymullina, who is a proud First Nations representative, with her roots found in the Palyku people of the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

UWA Deputy Vice Chancellor (Education), Professor David Sadler, congratulated Dr Kwaymullina on his achievement.

“The University of Western Australia is so proud and fortunate to have a mentor like Dr Kwaymullia among us,” said Professor Sadler.

“Being recognized in two categories during these awards shows how much impact Ambelin has had on not only the University, but also the students it mentors.”

The highly competitive awards, administered by the Department for Education, Skills and Employment, celebrate quality teaching practices that contribute to change in learning and teaching through the continuous sharing of knowledge.

The awards are normally presented at a ceremony held in Canberra as part of the Australian Universities Higher Education Conference, but due to COVID restrictions the event was held virtually.