Australia to Establish Its First Hindu School with Coalition Support
In a landmark announcement, the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon Peter Dutton MP, declared that an elected Coalition government would allocate up to $8.5 million towards establishing Australia's first dedicated Hindu school. This historic announcement was made during a visit to the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir and Cultural Precinct, coinciding with the visit of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
"Today's announcement underscores our commitment to faith-based education and community-led initiatives," said Mr. Dutton, highlighting the Coalition's plan to foster academic excellence and cultural heritage within Australia's diverse multicultural framework.
Senator the Hon Sarah Henderson, Shadow Minister for Education, emphasized the significance of the initiative for the Hindu community, which has long sought a faith-based educational institution. "It is crucial that Hindu children have the opportunity to pursue an education that respects their religious background while incorporating the robust Australian curriculum," Senator Henderson remarked.
The proposed school aims to integrate Hindu values and teachings with the Australian educational standards, ensuring a balanced approach to learning that respects both cultural identity and academic rigor. The Shadow Minister for Community Safety, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs, the Hon Jason Wood MP, noted, "This school represents a significant step towards catering to the needs of one of Australia’s fastest-growing religious communities."
The Hindu Council of Australia, having advocated for over a decade for such an initiative, will oversee the development of the project. The funding includes an initial $850,000 for a business case to assess feasibility, followed by $7.65 million for capital expenditure, ensuring that all planning and regulatory requirements are meticulously addressed.
This initiative marks a pivotal moment in Australia’s educational landscape, promising to deliver a pioneering institution that blends educational excellence with cultural fidelity, thereby enriching the multicultural tapestry of the nation.
