Kirsten Banks interview about National Science week 2021

Meet Kirsten Banks, Indigenous astronomer and the newest member of our AG family. Over the coming months she’ll be sharing her knowledge of space from an Aboriginal perspective.

National Science Week acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters, and their continuing connection to Country. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

As a celebration of science and technology, National Science Week also acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first scientists, makers and innovators of this land.

Indigenous Knowledge systems contain a wealth of scientific information and contribute significantly to STEM research in Australia. The value of two-way knowledge approaches – integrating Indigenous science and Western science – is widely recognized in modern science.

Indigenous perspectives can also be incorporated into our classroom to add value to Western science perspectives, and to create more inclusive learning environments and an increased awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.