Vale Lynne Kosky
Lynne Kosky passed away today, aged 56.
Lynne Kosky was a champion of the power and importance of Education to improve lives and improve society.
I worked in the Department of Education for just over two years when Lynne Kosky was Minister and also met her on many occasions in other work-related activities over most of the decade.
Things don’t normally make me blush but getting a kiss on the check from the Minister of Education at a large public event is both quite disarming and also reassuringly human. I think above all else, the authenticity and genuine good-natured, yet fierce commitment to equity that Lynne Kosky brought to her time as Education Minister, left an indelible mark on our Education system and
certainly on me.
Having seen first-hand how Lynne Kosky was committed to Education and Place-based planning, [such as the LLEN Network] and to see her drive to improve the skills-base of all Victorians, demonstrated a genuine commitment to public-service.
Whether supporting facilities for small rural communities, expanding statewide skills initiatives, devolving planning to state-wide governance networks or *very* humourously managing often “unruly” public meetings [ Yes Wallan – I am looking at you!], Lynne seemed to always have a firm purpose for and belief in the need for Education.
I may be mis-quoting slightly, but I think the line went something like:
If you will just shut-up for a minute, I am trying to give you a school!!
Her views are perhaps best summed up in the second reading of the Education and Training Reform Bill
Of all the factors that have the potential to increase an individual’s opportunities, education and training is the most enabling.
It allows individuals to equip themselves to live fulfilling, productive and satisfying lives. It provides the opportunity for them to consider their place in our democratic Australian communities and to acknowledge their cultural and linguistic heritage. Not only does education provide the grounding for the development of skills and judgment, it supports people to be innovative and creative. Education and training enables individuals to contribute to Australian society by adding to our national prosperity, participating in our democratic processes and strengthening the cohesive and egalitarian nature of our communities.
It is a private good that has immense public value.
– Lynne Kosky 2006
Vale Lynne Kosky
Hello Ellen,
Yes, Lynne’s work across all the sectors is worthy of respect. As you say, her work in Adult Ed was always a big priority.
Regards
Bill
A lovely tribute to a great education Minister. I will never forget what she did for Education in the State and across the regions. Not just schools, but Adult Education was a massive priority for her.
-added by editor