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A pilot program developed by Flinders University to help military veterans embrace new futures has identified key obstacles to re-training and delivered valuable information to support returned or retired service people at a transitional time in their lives.
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The federal government’s creation of a commissioner to investigate defence and veteran suicides highlights the complex challenges facing those who have completed service, and the broader impacts on families and communities.
Led by associate professor Ben Wadham, Flinders University developed a one-of-a-kind program in Australia last year – the Military Academic Pathway Program (MAPP) – which incorporates international best practice in veterans’ academic pathways.
A military veteran himself, Wadham said, "Our aim was to establish a veteran entry pathway that minimised the red tape people experience when leaving the Australian Defence Force and considering university as an option."
The Flinders University MAPP, launched on Remembrance Day 2019, attracted 27 participants with 19 completing the course and 14 subsequently applying for university in engineering, paramedics, international relations and psychology fields.
"We found the program helped them feel confident and prepared for university study. Among the most valued content was academic writing sessions and exposure to a variety of disciplines; challenges included work-related interruptions, such as being called in unexpectedly," Wadham said.
Results from the pilot will be shared with key stakeholders at a symposium next week, including details on the new Australian Student Veterans Association established at Flinders University as part of project.
The Higher Education Pathways for Younger Veterans Symposium will also explore broader transitioning issues and the wellbeing of military, veterans and their families. It will be attended by military, university and other government representatives including Flinders alumna Air Vice-Marshal (Ret'd) Dr Tracy Smart, former Surgeon General of the Australian Defence Force.
"Separation from the military is a challenging time for veterans and Flinders University is leading the way nationally in opening up study opportunities," Wadham explained.
Significantly, almost half of participants in the pilot program were younger veterans who had served in arms corps and had minimal exposure to military study entitlements due to their junior ranking.
"We know there are key challenges younger veterans face if they want to study at university. There needs to be recognition of service skills and their value to university studies, bridging opportunities and awareness of what pathways are available," Wadham said.
"I took this path after my own time in the Defence Force and negotiated a way to higher education, but it was not without its challenges."
This project was funded by a Department of Veterans Affairs Supporting Younger Veterans grant.
