Arabic version: استقالة نائب المستشار في جامعة تشارلز داروين بسبب قضايا الاعتماد

Scott Bowman has resigned as vice-chancellor of Charles Darwin University (CDU) following a significant accreditation scandal that has affected almost 300 TAFE students. According to ABC News, the issue arose when apprenticeships were incorrectly signed off as completed, impacting students enrolled in various construction courses.

The scandal first came to light earlier this month, revealing that at least 40 carpentry apprentices would need to return to study to complete “associated units of competency”. CDU later reported that the total number of students affected had increased to 296, some of whom were enrolled in a Certificate II in Construction Pathways course.

In a statement, CDU noted that both Professor Bowman and the university’s Executive Council decided it was in the institution’s best interests for him to step aside at this time. The decision aims to allow CDU to address the ongoing challenges and fulfill its responsibilities to students, staff, and the broader Northern Territory community.

CDU chancellor Trevor Riley acknowledged Bowman’s contributions to the university, stating that the institution is stronger due to his leadership. He also expressed regret over the circumstances leading to Bowman’s resignation and offered apologies to those affected by the accreditation issues.

Bowman’s departure marks the second resignation from CDU related to the scandal, following the resignation of pro-vice chancellor and TAFE chief executive Michael Hamilton last week.