Gandhi makes a mark at UNSW

The close links between India and UNSW will be highlighted by the unveiling of a bust of Gandhi on the Library Lawn this week (Wednesday, 1 September).

The bronze sculpture and a collection of books are a gift from the Government of India to the people of NSW and to the University. There is only one other such bust in the country.

The Consul-General of India in Sydney, Mr Amit Dasgupta, who presented the gift in October during the height of the student crisis, acknowledged the work being done by UNSW in maintaining close relations with the Indian community and providing a safe environment for Indian students.

Mr Dasgupta and the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Fred Hilmer, will unveil the sculpture in front of other prominent members of the University, Indian and broader communities.

The event is being held on the 100th anniversary of Wattle Day. Wattles are usually the first plants to rise from the ashes of bushfires and provide protection for other seedlings.

"Wattle is to be a lasting symbol of student safety at UNSW," says the Pro - Vice-Chancellor (International) Jennie Lang, who says that the plant will be grown around campus. "It is an example of something living in harmony, which will build goodwill on campus."

"It's wonderful that Indian students feel there's something so important for them here," says Ms Lang. "The bust is a significant gesture from the Indian government and in that spirit, the University has placed it at the heart of the campus as a reminder of those strong links and the importance of student safety."

What: Unveiling the bust of GandhiWhen: 3.15pm, Wednesday 1 SeptemberWhere: UNSW Library Lawn, Kensington campus

Media contact: Susi Hamilton, UNSW Media, 9385 1583 or 0422 934 024.