Events

In celebration of International Women’s Day, join the new Dean of Education, Professor Marek Tesar for a special Dean’s Lecture presented by Jutta Urpilainen, Former EU Commissioner and Champion of Global Education:

Breaking Barriers: Women, Leadership and the Future of Education

Education is a powerful driver of equality, yet too many barriers still prevent women from stepping into leadership roles—both in education and beyond.

In this conversation, Former European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, will explore her own leadership journey and reflect the urgent need for inclusive leadership in education systems worldwide. She will explore the transformative impact of female leadership, from shaping policies that foster equal opportunities to inspiring the next generation of change-makers.

By addressing gender disparities, investing in girls’ education, and strengthening leadership pathways for women, we can build more resilient, equitable, and prosperous societies.

The future of education depends on breaking barriers and ensuring every woman and girl has the opportunity to lead, thrive, and shape the world.

Registration is essential.

Please note: Due to the theatre’s limited capacity, please only register for a seated ticket if you are sure to be attending in person. A ticket type to receive a copy of the recording is available for those that are unable to attend. A link to the recording will also be sent those who register to attend in person, you will not need to register for this ticket as well.In the event that this lecture exceeds venue capacity we will require a change of venue within the University of Melbourne, Parkville campus. Keep an eye out for email communications post registration.

ACCESSIBILITY

If you have any support requirements in order to participate fully, please let us know via educationevents@unimelb.edu.au to ensure that we can arrange any reasonable adjustments.

Wominjeka, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung for welcome or ‘come, with purpose’, is a key event in the University’s calendar that signifies the start of the academic year. 

Wominjeka acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people as the Traditional Custodians of the land where the Parkville campus is located. A local Wurundjeri elder will perform a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony to welcome new and returning students and staff back to campus. 

Following the smoking ceremony a First Nations artist, Madi Colville-Walker, will perform and all students and staff can enjoy some native Australian flavoured ice-cream. 

We encourage students and staff to attend this event and to take the opportunity to celebrate and reflect on our shared spaces and the ways in which we all contribute to the University community. 

We also ask that you give thought on how you will ‘come, with purpose’ to the University this year, working and studying on the lands of its Traditional Custodians. 

Please arrive at 11.45am for a 12.00pm start.