Charles Sturt hosts historic GEA Conference

Port Macquarie campus was honored to host the first regional International Gender and Education Association conference.

The 20th Annual International Gender and Education Association (GEA) 2024 conference was held at Charles Sturt’s Port Macquarie campus, marking the first time in GEA history that the event took place in a regional location.

Led by Co-chairs Associate Professor Cate Thomas and Director of External Engagement Kate Wood-Foye, a team of 36 Charles Sturt staff from various faculties and campuses organised and delivered this significant forum. The team secured a competitive bid to host GEA’s first post-COVID in-person conference.

In collaboration with key industry partners, publishers, and institutions like SAGE (Science in Australia Gender and Equity), Charles Sturt facilitated the delivery of this international conference, emphasising social responsibility and global equity in education. The conference theme, ‘Be the change,’ attracted participants from around the world to the regional campus on Birpai country.

The event featured over 120 delegates from countries including China, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Afghanistan, and Sweden, along with 10 keynote speakers. It offered 81 diverse presentations, pre-conference workshops for Higher Degree Researchers and Early Career Researchers, and crucial discussions on dismantling systemic gender barriers in education. The successful delivery and commitment to inclusivity showcased Charles Sturt’s leadership in diversity and inclusion, fostering lasting partnerships and initiatives for ongoing positive change.

The conference not only boosted the economic, cultural, and social wealth of the Port Macquarie Hastings region but also underscored Charles Sturt’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity. Global delegates experienced the university’s genuine approach to accessibility, intersectionality, and global representation, resulting in a world-class conference that positioned Charles Sturt as a leader in gender and education.