Fast-tracking to the jobs of the future: New Academy to support hundreds of students
Hendri Mentz (left) and Professor Peter Høj AC with the Hon Peter Malinauskas MP
This week, the University of Adelaide and Deloitte welcomed more than 250 students to the Academy by Deloitte, a ground-breaking initiative designed to bridge the knowledge gap between academic theory and real-life workplace experience.
The innovative new program combines the University of Adelaide’s future-ready education expertise and position as a world top-100 university with Deloitte’s standing as a globally-influential, multi-industry market leader.
As part of the Academy, students from a wide variety of undergraduate programs will have access to tailored electives, a paid internship with Deloitte, and networking with Deloitte and industry representatives – all geared towards fast-tracking and supporting their entry into the workforce.
The Academy’s first cohort includes domestic and international students from a wide variety of programs across science, engineering, technology, arts, business, economics and law.
On Thursday 18 May the inaugural cohort of students had an opportunity to meet their peers at an event at the University of Adelaide’s Bonython Hall. The event was attended by the Hon Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia, Professor Peter Høj AC, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of Adelaide, Hendri Mentz, Managing Partner, South Australia, Deloitte and other key stakeholders.
Successful applicants were selected based on their ability to demonstrate authentic communication, adaptability and a collaborative approach to problem solving.
Participation will count towards students’ undergraduate courses.
“Students who have participated in the Academy will be at the forefront of South Australia’ economic development as well as positively contributing to the future of our nation.”Professor Peter Høj AC, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of Adelaide:
The Academy builds on a number of like-minded strategies already underway at Deloitte, such as its Adelaide-based Centre for Innovation and Technology, which develops large-scale technology and audit solutions for clients.
Comments about the new Academy:
Josh Goodwin, second year, Bachelor of Law and Commerce (majoring in Corporate Finance):
“I feel that the Academy will be fundamental in supporting my career aspirations, as it will be my first bit of experience in the industry and once again, can set me up with significant challenges and learning curves that will benefit me in the present and future.
“This experience at Deloitte will help me find the areas that I find most interesting and rewarding, leading for me to narrow down what industries and areas I would like to go into in the future.”
Vidya Chellani, second year, Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Corporate Finance).
“I am joining the Academy because the plethora of exciting opportunities, immense exposure and the extensive skills that it provides is incomparable.
“The networking events and internships will offer opportunities to connect with professionals in the field and gain exposure, valuable hands-on experience and help build a strong foundation of practical skills and knowledge.”
Professor Peter Høj AC, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of Adelaide:
”The University of Adelaide and Deloitte have co-designed the Academy to give students industry-aligned experience that will help them to become some of the leaders of the future.
“The first cohort of students includes 267 students, from over 80 programs across each of our three faculties.
“Students will develop future-ready capabilities including business acumen, self-leadership, advisory and technology skills which will complement their academic studies.
“By collaborating with business, industry and government in this program the University is helping to train the skilled work force of the future.
“Students who have participated in the Academy will be at the forefront of South Australia’ economic development as well as positively contributing to the future of our nation.”
Hendri Mentz, Managing Partner, South Australia, Deloitte
“The launch of The Academy by Deloitte, co-designed with the University of Adelaide, is a bold demonstration of our commitment to creating an impact that matters, by helping to tackle the skills shortage across Australia, and creating diverse career pathways for young talent.
“It’s a nod to our continued investment in South Australia, as is our upcoming move to Festival Tower in 2024, which will empower our people to harness flexibility, connect and collaborate to do their best work.”
More information is available at: www.adelaide.edu.au/the-academy/
Media contacts
Crispin Savage, Manager, News and Media, The University of Adelaide. Mobile: +61 (0)481 912 465. Email: crispin.savage@adelaide.edu.au