Dominic Orih

Dr Dominic Orih is an education researcher whose work integrates Indigenous knowledge with student development, focusing on wellbeing, soft skills, and holistic pedagogical approaches in higher education. He earned his PhD in Education from James Cook University, Australia, researching the integration of First Nations Family Wellbeing program into university settings as effective soft skills interventions. His diverse academic background includes studies at Urbaniana University in Rome, Australian Catholic University, and the University of the Sunshine Coast, shaping his multifaceted approach to education. Throughout his career, Dom has worked across secondary and tertiary education settings, supporting vulnerable student populations and demonstrating commitment to empowering young people facing educational challenges. As a Member of the Margaret Roderick Centre for Mental Health Research, his scholarly focus encompasses emancipatory educational practices, Indigenous approaches to wellbeing, and heart-centred teaching pedagogy, with current work aimed at scaling research impact across multiple university systems through implementation science frameworks.