Adjunct Professor Asif Iqbal – Guest of Honour at Canterbury Institute of Management Graduation Ceremony
2025-08-15 | Canterbury Institute of Management
On Friday, 15 August 2025, Canterbury Institute of Management celebrated its Graduation Ceremony 2025 at the Darwin Campus. The event was honoured by Professor Asif Iqbal, SCI Dean & CEO, who delivered an inspiring speech recognising the accomplishments of CIM’s graduating students. The video of the ceremony is available here

Professional development session on Cultural Capability
2025-08-15 08:00 - 13:00 UTC | SCI Campus, Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia
Southern Cross Institute (SCI) sincerely thanks Ms Heather Kember and Dr David Newham from Mawambul Design & Cultural Consultancy for leading an insightful professional development session on Cultural Capability for our staff.
The session was engaging and highly informative, covering:

The purpose of an Acknowledgement of Country and practical guidance on delivering one.
Traditional stories, including their morals, values, and significance.
Ways these practices foster respect and connection within educational spaces.

Their expertise, thoughtful delivery, and generosity in sharing knowledge provided our staff with valuable insights and strengthened our collective cultural understanding.
This was more than just a learning opportunity — it was a chance to reimagine the spaces where learning occurs. The session has inspired reflection, growth, and a deeper commitment to walking alongside our communities with understanding and respect. We are dedicated to carrying these lessons forward in our classrooms and beyond.

SCI’s Scholarly Activity Funding Initiatives – Graduate Certificate of Educational Leadership
2025-09-04 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW
Dr Song EE Hahn has completed the Graduate Certificate of Educational Leadership at UNSW, supported by SCI’s Scholarly Activity Funding. This program is designed for educators seeking to develop leadership capabilities in academic settings, with a focus on strategic decision-making, curriculum leadership, and fostering innovation in teaching and learning. Through this course, Dr Hahn has strengthened her ability to lead educational initiatives and contribute to continuous improvement in student outcomes at SCI.

Exclusive Talk with Ms. Grace Yap
2025-09-05 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW

SCI’s Scholarly Activity Funding Initiative - Promoting Mental Health and Well-being at Work
2025-09-08 08:00 - 2025-09-09 17:00 | NSW
Southern Cross Institute (SCI) is proud to recognise the dedication of Dr Anju Kalluvelil Janardhanan, Deputy Dean, and Ms Heena Panchal, Compliance and Special Projects Director, who have recently become Accredited Mental Health First Aider™ (MHFAider®).
Through this meaningful commitment, they are nurturing a supportive culture at SCI, empowering colleagues, challenging stigma, and ensuring mental health is given equal importance to physical health.
A heartfelt thank you to Dr Janardhanan and Ms Panchal for dedicating their time, energy, and compassion. Your leadership and empathy will make a tangible difference in the lives of your colleagues. We also extend our gratitude to Ms Jodi McAlary, Senior Consultant Facilitator, MiTraining and MHFA Australia, for delivering the standard mental health first aid course.
Together, we are creating a culture where it’s okay to seek help and no one has to face challenges on their own.

Educational Site Visit to Fine Food Australia 2025!
2025-09-09 08:00 - 15:30 | ICC Sydney
Students from the Bachelor of Business (Hospitality Management) recently attended the Fine Food Australia Exhibition at the ICC Sydney as part of their studies in Food and Beverage Management (HOS204) and Global Trends in Hospitality (HOS303).
This premier industry event brought together the latest innovations in food, beverages, and hospitality. Our students had the opportunity to explore global products, experience emerging technologies, and engage directly with industry professionals—enhancing their understanding of current and future trends shaping the hospitality sector.
The excursion was led by Dr. Song Ee Hahn, Academic Director – Hospitality Management, and Mr. Carl Shi, Lecturer – Hospitality Management, who guided students in linking classroom learning with real-world industry practices.

This experiential learning opportunity reflects SCI’s commitment to preparing students with practical knowledge and industry connections for their future careers.

https://sci.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ips-48AE7C84-C58E-4E8C-9499-1F59E5561779.mp4

Educational Site Visit to NoVacancy Expo 2025
2025-09-17 09:00 - 17:00 | ICC Sydney
Students from the Bachelor of Business (Hospitality Management) recently attended the NoVacancy Expo 2025 (https://www.terrapinn.com/exhibition/novacancy/index.stm) in ICC Sydney as part of their studies in HOS203 (Contemporary Accommodation Management).
The NoVacancy Expo was a great chance for our students to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the real world of hospitality. By meeting industry professionals and discovering new ideas, they gained fresh insights into the future of accommodation management. Students also experienced the spirit of inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation that drives the hospitality community forward.
One of the most popular sessions, “Beyond Google: How Hotels Can Win in the Age of ChatGPT and AI Search”, featured marketing insights from:

Jackie Douglas – President, HSMAI (Moderator)
Tracy Macarthur – Senior Marketing Manager, Digital, Campaigns & Hotel Marketing, Travel & Leisure Co.
Paul Hewett – CEO, In Marketing We Trust
Catherine McLaughlin – Director, Field Marketing (ANZ & Pacific), Marriott International
Brent Harris – Vice President, Sales, Cendyn

The excursion was led by Dr Song Ee Hahn, Academic Director – Hospitality Management, and Mr Carl Shi, Lecturer – Hospitality Management, who supported students in connecting classroom learning with real-world industry practices.
Through this excursion, students were able to learn about emerging trends and the future direction of accommodation management directly from industry leaders. They experienced first-hand how innovation, digital transformation, and AI are reshaping the accommodation sector.

Exclusive Talk with Mr Sandeep Khera
2025-09-26 11:00 - 12:00 | Level 2/1 Fitzwilliam St, Parramatta NSW 2150

SCISA Pizza Lunch
2025-10-08 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW
https://sci.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/SCI-Pizza-Lunch.mp4

SCI Orientation Day | November 2025
2025-11-25 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW

Library Services Usage Awareness Week (week 1,2)
2025-12-01 08:00 - 2025-12-12 17:00 | Southern Cross Institute (SCI), Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street,, Parramatta, NSW, 2150, Australia

Professional Learning Session on GenAI & Assessments – Process-Aware Models
2025-12-05 14:00 - 16:00 | SCI Campus, Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia
Associate Professor Anju Kalluvelil Janardhanan, Deputy Dean, facilitated an impactful professional learning session for the Academic Team and the Learning Support Team at Southern Cross Institute (SCI). The session strengthened staff capability in applying SCI’s GenAI institutional action plan and provided clear guidance on best-practice assessment design, with demonstrated examples of both open and secure assessment models. Associate Professor Janardhanan also outlined practical strategies to maintain academic integrity in AI-enhanced learning environments, supporting teams in refining assessment documentation and implementation for upcoming teaching periods.

Academic Integrity Awareness Week (Week 2,3)
2025-12-08 08:00 - 2026-01-19 17:00 | Southern Cross Institute (SCI), Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street,, Parramatta, NSW, 2150, Australia

Secret Santa Gift Exchange
2025-12-10 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW

SCI’s Scholarly Activity Funding Initiatives – Graduate Certificate in Education (Tertiary Education)
2025-12-11 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW
Dr Shah Haque has completed the Graduate Certificate in Education (Tertiary Education) (GCETE) at Federation University with support from SCI’s Scholarly Activity Funding. This postgraduate program is designed for tertiary educators and focuses on contemporary, evidence-based teaching practices. Through studies in curriculum design, assessment, online and blended learning, and student engagement, he has strengthened his pedagogical expertise to enhance learning outcomes in his discipline.

Secret Santa Gift Exchange (Staff)
2025-12-19 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW

SCI’s Scholarly Activity Funding Initiatives – CAUTHE 2026 Annual Conference
2026-02-09 08:00 - 2026-02-12 17:00 | National Wine Centre, Adelaide
Dr Song Ee Hahn attended the CAUTHE 2026 Annual Conference held at the National Wine Centre, Adelaide, from 9–12 February 2026, where she presented her paper titled:
Enhancing Learning Effectiveness in Tourism and Hospitality Education in the Artificial Intelligence Era.
Her presentation sparked meaningful discussion on AI integration and student learning effectiveness in hospitality education. Dr Hahn also participated in the Teaching and Learning Special Interest Group session, engaging with peers on current academic challenges and innovations.
Overall, the conference was a valuable opportunity to strengthen professional networks and reinforce SCI’s commitment to excellence in teaching and learning in the AI era.

Southern Cross Institute Hosts University of Zadar Academic Delegates
2026-02-16 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW
Southern Cross Institute (SCI) recently had the pleasure of hosting two European academics, Prof Mladen Rajko and Prof Aleksandra Krajnović from the University of Zadar, as part of a European Union–funded Erasmus+ Staff Training Mobility Visit.
The visit was an important milestone in SCI’s ongoing commitment to international engagement, building global partnerships, and academic collaboration. Fully funded through the European Union, the visit focused on professional exchange, institutional familiarisation, and relationship building.
During the staff training held at SCI’s Fitzwilliam Street campus, the visiting academics engaged in a series of structured meetings with SCI’s academic leadership, compliance team, library and learning support staff, and student support services. Discussions explored SCI’s academic programs, teaching philosophy, curriculum design, student engagement strategies, and research interests, alongside shared reflections on higher education practices in Australia and Europe.
Southern Cross Institute values this meaningful engagement and sees the Erasmus+ staff training visit as a strong foundation for developing sustainable, mutually beneficial partnerships with European higher education institutions. SCI looks forward to continuing discussions with the University of Zadar and strengthening its global academic network in support of teaching excellence, research innovation, and internationalisation.

Semester 1, 2026 New Student Orientation
2026-02-23 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW

SCI Orientation Day | March 2026
2026-02-27 10:00 - 11:00 | Southern Cross Institute (SCI), Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street,, Parramatta, NSW, 2150, Australia

Gender-Based Violence Awareness Session
2026-03-03 08:00 - 17:00 | SCI Campus, Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia

Academic Integrity Awareness Week 2, 3 & 4 Semester 1 2026
2026-03-09 08:00 - 2026-03-28 17:00 | Southern Cross Institute (SCI), Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street,, Parramatta, NSW, 2150, Australia

Library Services Usage Awareness Week (2 & 3) Semester 1, 2026
2026-03-09 08:30 - 2026-03-20 17:30 | Southern Cross Institute (SCI), Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street,, Parramatta, NSW, 2150, Australia

Dean’s Commendation Letter 2025 – Academic Staff
2026-03-26 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW
SCI is pleased to announce the recipients of the Dean’s Commendation Letter 2025 recognising outstanding academic contributions across research, student engagement, and international collaboration.
On the recommendation of the Deputy Dean, Associate Professor Anju Kalluvelil Janardhanan, this formal recognition acknowledges the recipients’ dedication and professional efforts in strengthening SCI’s research profile, enhancing student engagement, and building valuable external partnerships. Their contributions have significantly supported the growth and visibility of SCI’s institutional reputation and visibility. This achievement reflects their continued commitment to academic excellence.
The following staff members were recognised for their exceptional contributions:

Dr Made Handijaya Dewantara – International Collaboration
Dr Song EE Hahn – Student Engagement
Dr Carl Shi Yi – Student Engagement
Dr Eric Howard – Research Excellence

SCI extends its sincere congratulations to all recipients and encourages their continued contribution to advancing excellence across teaching, research, and global engagement.

Exclusive Talk with Mr Haobo Zhang
2026-03-27 14:00 - 15:00 | SCI Campus, Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia

Lord Mayor’s Welcome for International Students 2026
2026-04-01 17:00 - 20:00 | Sydney Town Hall
SCI Students attended the Lord Mayor’s Welcome for International Students 2026 at Sydney Town Hall, where they engaged with Sydney’s business and international community networks. The event featured a Welcome to Country, cultural performances, and valuable networking opportunities with industry and government representatives. Well done!

New Campus Opening Celebration
2026-04-16 12:30 - 14:00 | Level 6, 31–39 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150

Exclusive Talk with Ms. Kyra Youn
2026-04-20 08:00 - 17:00 | NSW
We were honoured to host Ms. Kyra Youn, Guest Relations Manager at Sydney Harbour Marriott, for an insightful guest lecture at Southern Cross Institute.
Her session on Customer Service Excellence in the Hotel Industry provided our students with valuable real-world perspectives and a deeper understanding of guest relations in a luxury hospitality setting.
We sincerely thank Ms. Youn for her time, expertise, and inspiring contribution to our students’ learning experience. We look forward to welcoming her again in the future.

SCI Academics Gain International Recognition at AIMBIG Oceania 2026
2026-05-22 08:00 - 2026-05-23 17:00 | UNSW Sydney
Academics from Southern Cross Institute (SCI) presented their research work on the international stage at the AIMBIG Oceania 2026 Conference, held at the University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) on 22–23 May 2026.
Representing SCI were Dr Hom Nath Dhungana, Dr Radhika Kuttala, Dr Eric Howard, and Associate Professor Anju Kalluvelil Janardhanan. The team presented their research paper, “Who Decides Best? A Rapid Systematic Review of AI, Human, and Hybrid Decision-Making in Higher Education Admissions,” which attracted strong interest and received highly positive feedback from conference delegates and reviewers. The research examines the evolving role of artificial intelligence in higher education admissions and contributes to important global discussions on how AI, human expertise, and hybrid approaches can support decision-making processes in universities.
Another highlight of the conference was the keynote presentation delivered by Dr Hom Nath Dhungana on “The Hidden Cost of AI: Balancing Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence in the Future of Society”. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to research and innovation, Dr Dhungana was honoured with the prestigious Global Excellence Award.
The achievements of the SCI team reflect the Institute’s growing research profile and its commitment to advancing innovation, knowledge creation, and international collaboration in higher education.
SCI congratulates Dr Dhungana, Dr Kuttala, Dr Howard, and Associate Professor Janardhanan on their outstanding accomplishments and looks forward to their continued contributions to impactful research and academic excellence.

SCI Sports Event S1 2026
2026-06-10 15:00 - 17:00 | NSW
