From remote classrooms to hands-on science labs, young Territorians are gaining new opportunities to learn, grow and lead through a collaboration between Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) Radicle Centre and the AFL Northern Territory’s Make Your Mark program.

By bringing together hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and leadership development, the collaboration is creating unique learning experiences that help students build confidence, develop new skills and broaden their horizons.

Students from Nawarddeken Academy travelled to Darwin to take part in the Make Your Mark residential camp and also took part in hands-on STEM activities at the Radicle Centre, combining leadership learning with science and technology exploration.

As part of the workshop, students engaged with INPEX Environmental Team Lead Ichthys Ben Davis, who shared insights into his role and the practical applications of STEM in industry. The session gave students an opportunity to connect their learning with real-world career pathways.

The experience highlighted the value of connecting different areas of learning, giving students opportunities to develop practical skills while strengthening their confidence, resilience and sense of possibility for the future.

INPEX is proud to support the CDU Radicle Centre and AFLNT’s Make Your Mark program, helping create opportunities for young people across the Territory.

Since 2025, INPEX has partnered with the CDU Radicle Centre to deliver innovative STEM programs for students across the Territory.

Designed to make STEM engaging and accessible, the programs combine school-based workshops with immersive learning experiences at the Radicle Centre. Students are encouraged to explore real-world challenges through hands-on activities that connect science and technology with life in the Territory.

Primary school students are introduced to foundational STEM concepts through interactive classroom sessions, while older students gain deeper insights through programs developed with university researchers and industry partners.

The result is practical, experiential learning that helps young people see the possibilities that STEM education can offer, while building skills that are increasingly important for the Territory’s future workforce.

For more than a decade, AFLNT’s Make Your Mark Program has supported Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through programs focused on education, wellbeing, cultural connection and personal growth.

Since 2016, the INPEX-led Ichthys joint venture has proudly partnered with the Make Your Mark program, which combines learning with leadership development in a uniquely Territory setting.

Delivered through residential experiences in Darwin, the program integrates literacy and numeracy with social and emotional wellbeing, goal setting, creative activities and mentoring.

Through team-based challenges and structured support, students build confidence, resilience and a strong sense of identity and belonging. Participants are nominated by their schools in recognition of their attendance, engagement and positive participation.

The recent collaboration between the Radicle Centre and the AFLNT demonstrates how partnerships between education providers, community organisations and industry can create meaningful opportunities for young Territorians.

By connecting STEM education with leadership development, students are encouraged to explore new interests, discover their strengths and build skills that will support their future aspirations.

Through its support of both organisations, INPEX is proud to help expand access to programs that inspire learning, strengthen wellbeing and help young Territorians realise their potential, wherever they call home. TQ

To find out more, visit: CDU Radicle Centre at radiclent.net
AFLNT’s Make Your Mark program at facebook.com/michaellongcentre