Students from Armidale Secondary College, Uralla Central and Guyra Central Schools put their thinking hats on to resolve local challenges at a planning forum held in Armidale recently.

The 24 students had to find innovative ways to address specific problems facing our region, including attracting more tourists to the region, what to do with empty shops in our towns, water security, waste disposal and better access to activities and facilities for young people.

The forum was organised and funded through a Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program (HEPPP) administered by the University of New England.

The program, Schools and University Connect, works on linking schools with the University and encouraging school students to consider university options in the future.

Program lead, Dr Jim White said, “It is important for students to have a voice in community planning and to understand that university courses are evolving to better prepare people for the challenges of the future.”

Before embarking on the challenges, students listened to an inspirational presentation from Krista Watkins, the co-founder of Natural Evolution Food.

Krista explained how, together with her husband, they turned a waste problem of 500 ton of green bananas into a viable food product sold all over the world.

Next, to inspire the students was STEMPunks lead educator, Damien Aldridge. STEM Punks promotes Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths education in schools through immersive experiences. Damien explained to the students the importance of using technology in finding solutions to problems.

Student ambassadors will now work with the Renew Armidale team to share their ideas. They will also approach Armidale Regional Council and Uralla Shire Council to discuss their work with key decision-makers.

Students will also have opportunity to be part of a Creative Thinking club where they can work with UNE in areas that can enhance their HSC studies and continue their work to improve the local region.