Funding boost in digital infrastructure
Wyong TAFE receive a funding boost of $741,000 in digital infrastructure to fund devices and Wi-Fi networks over the next 2 years.
4 September 2024
SIXTY-EIGHT TAFE NSW campuses are included to receive a significant boost of $74 million to improve digital infrastructure.
The multi-million-dollar investment includes upgrading the outdated 2009 network, enhancing connectivity across 68 campus locations receiving a significant boost of $74 million, to provide 14,900 new devices for students, employees, and teaching spaces.
Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said, “the Minns Labor Government recognises that to expand learning opportunities in local communities, TAFE NSW needs enhanced network infrastructure and improved connectivity.
“Investing in technology-enriched campuses will enable TAFE NSW to better deliver skills for critical and emerging industries.
These upgrades are essential for supporting modern educational needs in hybrid learning environments.
By enhancing digital infrastructure, all students regardless of location, will have access to the technology they need to succeed.
The Hon. David Harris, Member for Wyong said, “The Wyong Campus upgrades will make learning more accessible and convenient, allowing students and teachers to easily access information and resources for studies and help students learn and succeed in an academic setting.”
“The upgrades also complement the new specialist animal studies facility which is currently being built on site.”
"To date, we have already provided more than 6,000 new classroom devices for learners.
“Investing in TAFE NSW ensures that the capacity to deliver skills for critical and emerging industries for a modern economy is increased, and key workers in priority industries are trained to build a robust, scalable, and skilled workforce.”
TAFE NSW Wellington Head Teacher of Construction, Mark Penman said, “As an educator, I see firsthand how important it is to provide access to quality education for students from regional, rural and disadvantaged communities.
Many of our students rely heavily on campus-based digital infrastructure to complete their coursework.
“Previously, during lessons, I had to walk around the room with my laptop to find internet coverage. This was very disruptive and hindered the learning experience.”
"With the upgrades, we can now offer a stable and reliable network connection that supports the needs of everyone, no matter which campus they are based at.
"This significantly improves both teaching and learning experiences, making our classrooms more efficient and engaging."
The first stage of the improvements, which include WiFi and digital infrastructure upgrades, will be completed at 28 campuses by the end of August. An additional 40 campuses are scheduled for completion by June 2025.