Karnkanthi Indigenous Education Program

Our vision is to ensure the success of Karnkanthi students throughout their senior years of schooling and to prepare them for university by building on their unique personal, academic, and cultural strengths.

About the program

Translating to ‘lifting up’ in the Kaurna language, Karnkanthi ensures the success of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, in Years 10, 11 and 12/13, as they transition from their senior years in secondary education into university and the higher education sector.

Karnkanthi offers an environment which supports student learning by building a reciprocal relationship of trust, through a tailored program of guidance and cultural connectedness that takes into account the individual needs and strengths of each successful applicant.

We understand that study at a senior level is an ongoing commitment, so we work closely with students to ensure that their academic growth and success is sustainable. Ultimately, our aims are to build confidence and capacity of the participants to consider and pursue a university education that will empower them with opportunities to build career and aspirations for life.

The Karnkanthi Indigenous Education Program offers two distinct streams; the Karnkanthi Full Program and the Karnkanthi Associate Program.

Key benefits Full program Associates program
Access to private tutoring for school studies;
Opportunities to participate in academic, personal, cultural and career development activities
Financial support for travel and accommodation
Access to student development scholarships
  • Information for applicants

    Who can apply?

    Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students in Years 10, 11 and 12/13 who;

    • Are committed, motivated and have a willingness to learn and participate in program activities. 
    • Have a passion for learning.
    • Want to improve and build on their academic and leadership skills.
    • Want to explore higher education and tertiary studies.

    When to apply

    Students in Years 9 can apply within Term 4. Years 10 and 11 can apply at any time throughout the calendar year. Students in Year 12 must apply by June 30th in the calendar year so they are eligible and have access to the full program of activities and events.

    How to apply

    Read and discuss the information and application with a parent/guardian or teacher. Complete the application form, including three referee statements, and return to the Karnkanthi Coordinator, Wirltu Yarlu.

    Please ensure all sections are complete before submitting the application, including supporting documentation. We're only a phone call away if you'd like to discuss your application further. You can contact the Karnkanthi Coordinator on (08) 8313 0414 or 1800 651 763 (toll-free for national) or via email karnkanthi@adelaide.edu.au.

    Opportunity for growth

    Applicants will be notified of their successful entry into either of the two distinct streams; the Karnkanthi Full Program and the Karnkanthi Associate Program based on their eligibility. Students who are successful into the Karnkanthi Associates Program have the opportunity to be progress into the Karnkanthi Full Program.

    Apply Now

  • Frequently asked questions

    Is there a cost associated with the Karnkanthi program?

    The Karnkanthi Program is a fully funded program and is at no cost to students or their families.

    Who can be a referee?

    Any person who is willing to provide a testimony about the character or ability of the student and knows the student well. A referee can be:

    • Family friends
    • Community Leaders
    • Sporting coaches
    • Teachers or School Counsellors
    • School Principals
    • Mentors or Tutors
    • Social Workers
    • Employers
    • Aboriginal Community Education Officers (ACEOs)

    How many activities are there in a full program?

    There are a total of ten (10) activities in the full years program.