Noma Johnson, Executive Director of GEGAC’s Children Youth and Families Division, chats with Department of Education Secretary Jenny Atta, Acting Deputy Secretary for First Nations Strategy, Policy, and Programs Angela Singh and others during a recent visit of department leaders to GEGAC. Photo: Troy Brown/GEGAC
GEGAC continues to build strong relationships with officials and decision-makers in Melbourne to advocate for the increased funding and support we need to serve this community best.
GEGAC hosted a visit from the Victorian Department of Education, led by the Department Secretary Jenny Atta, Deputy Secretary for Early Childhood Education Bronwen FitzGerald, and Acting Deputy Secretary for First Nations Strategy, Policy, and Programs Angela Singh.
“Engaging with policymakers drives us toward brighter futures for our children,” said GEGAC CEO Kenton Winsley. “The department’s support strengthens our programs and sparks tremendous potential in every young learner.”
“GEGAC is forging a powerful legacy of empowerment, self-determination, and education within our community.”
Visits like these are vital. They ensure that GEGAC is at the forefront of officials’ minds when crucial funding and investment decisions are made.
Members of GEGAC’s Executive team with leaders of the Victorian Department of Education at GEGAC’s Dala Yooro Kindergarten earlier this month. Photo: Troy Brown/GEGAC
The visit was a prime opportunity for GEGAC leadership to tell the story of the growth and success of our Early Years Education services, such as Dala Yooro Kindergarten and Boorai Supported Playgroup.
When it opened in 2013, Dala Yooro had 12 enrolled children. This year, there are 40 children enrolled at Dala Yooro.
“This growth preserves our cultural heritage and strengthens community bonds by providing a culturally sensitive learning environment that deeply respects and integrates Aboriginal perspectives,” said Noma Johnson, Executive Director of GEGAC’s Children Youth and Families Division. “We are very proud of the incredible service our Early Years program has provided families in our community in recent years and the GEGAC staff that worked so hard to make that happen.”
“Our job now is to advocate for the increased funding and investments needed to maintain that growth, to make sure that Dala Yooro and our other services for local children and families continue to improve and expand.”
Learn more about Dala Yooro and our other Early Years programs at gegac.org.au/early-years/