City of Bunbury and Edith Cowan University to provide ‘educational, research and engagement’ opportunities

Edith Cowan University will have the first rights to any major research projects in the South West after signing a landmark deal with the City of Bunbury. The non-binding memorandum of understanding, which was ratified at a council meeting on Tuesday night, will also see the university partner with Bunbury to promote the region as a premium destination for travel and study as well as being considered for training of city staff. Developing “local talent and exploring development opportunities for Bunbury” are also among the priorities for the two parties. The partnership will be an economic boost to Bunbury, according to mayor Jaysen Miguel, who also said the city was the perfect location for students to continue their education. “This is an exciting partnership between the city and ECU, paving the way for some great opportunities and providing multiple benefits to our community and our local economy,” he said. “Bunbury is ideally located and has the infrastructure to cater for students to be based here, so I’m keen to see this MOU further promote those possibilities.” Councillor Gabi Ghasseb moved the motion, and described the deal as a “good chance to collaborate and do research together” and said he believes “education in the region could produce the biggest economic boom to benefit our community”. ECU vice-chancellor and president Steve Chapman said working with the city would help it keep graduating students in the region. “We’re delighted to see this level of commitment from the City of Bunbury to increase educational, research and engagement opportunities,” he said. “ECU has the largest regional university campus in the state and it’s in one of the fastest growing regions in Australia. “This strategic collaboration with the city is paramount to strengthening the region. “As a university, we’re keen to continue developing opportunities for current and future ECU students to study, live and work in the South West.” A working group, consisting of representatives from the City of Bunbury and the university will be established to review the arrangement at least four times a year.