DUBBO'S TAFE NSW Western Institute has hosted the launch of a national and online course that aims to keep the Wiradjuri language alive.
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Certificate 1 Aboriginal Languages and Culture is a first in the history of TAFE NSW and TAFE Western.
Its first cohort of students will be enrolled in second semester with interstate residents already showing interest in being part of it.
The online course also seeks to increase the number of Aboriginal students studying with TAFE NSW and break down education barriers, including distance and isolation.
On Thursday TAFE Western Yarradamarra Centre head teacher Connie Ah See launched the "unique" course that specifically targets Wiradjuri people, wherever they may be.
"The aim of the course is to assist Aboriginal peoples, especially Wiradjuri people, to learn their language in the hope of reclaiming and maintaining it for future generations," she said.
"It will encompass cultural and language learning, taking people on an exciting journey of discovery and cultural experiences."
Ms Ah See said the online course would "reach more people in more places".
"At the moment we have a number of inquiries from interstate about this course, with three Wiradjuri people in Arnhem Land and Victoria eager to learn their language, but up until now they have not been able to because of the distance," she said.
"I cannot wait until semester two for the course to begin, it is a very exciting time for everyone involved."
TAFE Western Institute director Kate Baxter said the course was in keeping with its efforts to boost Aboriginal student participation.
"Here at TAFE Western we are making a huge effort to bridge the gap in the disadvantage that Aboriginal peoples experience in relation to education and employment," she said.
"This online course is a vitally important step towards recognising the importance of the Wiradjuri language now and into the future."
