A pioneering initiative between WISE Employment and Deakin University’s Faculty of Business and Law is set to transform the educational landscape for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The “Achieving with Autism – Student Support Scholarship,” launched this week, breaks new ground by funding tailored one-on-one support – specifically for students with ASD – aspiring to excel in business and law.
Edward Osano, Head of GradWISE at WISE Employment, who spearheaded the initiative, said, “This scholarship is a milestone for Australian universities. It addresses a critical gap by ensuring that higher education is more inclusive and accessible. We are proud to lead this initiative, which empowers students with ASD to reach their full potential as future leaders.”
Professor Jenni Lightowlers, Executive Dean Faculty of Business and Law, Deakin University is very optimistic about the collaboration: “Partnering with WISE Employment allows us to offer this transformative scholarship which aligns perfectly with Deakin’s commitment to creating an inclusive educational environment. It’s designed not just to support the academic journey but to foster leadership qualities among students with ASD.”
“Encouraging the widest possible participation in our law and business degrees, and by extension the professions, is integral to our Deakin values. We embrace difference and respect and welcome all.”
Opening up new opportunities
The scholarship offers dedicated support worker assistance to a value of up to $12,000 per year, enabling students to fully engage with their academic and social environments at Deakin University. Applications for the inaugural intake starting Trimester 2, 2024, opened on May 6, 2024, and will close on June 3, 2024.
Eligibility extends to any prospective student registered with WISE Employment and diagnosed with ASD, pursuing undergraduate degrees within the Faculty of Business and Law, such as the Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Laws, and Bachelor of Business.
Challenging expectations
WISE Employment is renowned for advocating for and supporting individuals with disabilities.
“Our mission transcends finding employment for people with disabilities. We challenge societal expectations and push the boundaries of what is possible for our community,” said Edward Osano.
He further added, “This scholarship encourages students with ASD to not only envision but also actualise a future where they are leaders, innovators, and inspirations for future generations.”
Empowering community and beyond
The scholarship aims to do more than support individual students; it seeks to cultivate a community where diversity in leadership is normalised, and disability is no longer seen as a barrier to achieving great things.
“We hope this scholarship inspires eligible students to apply, to strive for excellence and to become role models in their fields,” Professor Lightowlers concluded. “It’s about building confidence, not just in these students, but across the community, reshaping how we view potential, and success, among individuals with disabilities.”
For more information and to apply for the ‘Achieving with Autism – Student Support Scholarship’ visit – Deakin University’s scholarship page.