By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
STUDENTS are calling for answers on the future of Monash’s Berwick campus amid fears it will be sold or leased to another institution.
A petition calling for clarity on the future of the campus was drawn up on Tuesday 12 May.
By Friday 500 concerned students had signed the letter addressed to the Monash University Council and the vice-chancellor.
They asked that Monash confirm or deny plans to sell or allow another institution to use the Berwick campus.
Monash Union of Berwick Students president Dani Rothwell said that Monash had been avoiding students’ questions for some time.
“The future of the Berwick campus was on the agenda of a meeting in April but it was postponed,” she said.
“When I questioned what that item referred to, the response was that consultations would begin mid-year.
“For far too long, rumours have been circulating that Monash has plans to sell or allow another institution to use the Monash Berwick facility.
“For far too long, Monash University has provided no answers.”
In a statement released on Thursday, Monash spokesman Adam Redman confirmed management was considering changes to the administration of the campus. He stressed that a final decision had yet to be made.
“Monash University has been discussing options to enhance provision of opportunities in the south east, including at Berwick, with other providers who could offer courses aligned to the needs of the students in the area,” he said.
“No final decisions have been made. Before then, consultation with stakeholders including staff and students would be undertaken.”
On 1 January 2014 Monash University’s Gippsland Campus was taken over by Federation Uni.
Ms Rothwell fears the Berwick campus will face a similar fate.
“The Gippsland students got very little warning that the campus was changing hands, and now they’re studying at a uni that they didn’t apply for,” she said.
“It’s not fair and students deserve better.”
Mr Redman said a firm proposal was not expected until the second half of 2015.
“Regardless of what might be proposed in the future, all Monash Berwick students will continue to be taught by Monash staff and, subject to meeting the normal requirements, graduate with a Monash degree,” he said.
