The Peter Underwood Centre for Educational Attainment, named after the late governor, will aim to understand the issues causing Tasmania’s relatively poor levels of high school retention and literacy.

University of Tasmania vice-chancellor Peter Rathjen said the centre honoured the memory of Mr Underwood, who had pushed for a collaborative effort between the government and university.

‘‘It is an acknowledgement that there is much to do and that addressing the issues which are holding Tasmanian children back will take many years to improve,’’ Professor Rathjen said.

‘‘This is, however, a significant step on a road which Tasmania has not travelled up until this point.

‘‘Tackling the issue requires focus, strong leadership, fruitful partnerships and community support.’’

Education Minister Jeremy Rockliff said the centre would analyse the state’s education system, address the need for training and professional development, and organise activities to increase participation in education in disadvantaged communities.

‘‘The number one goal is retention and attainment,’’ Mr Rockliff said.

He said the opening of the centre would prove a landmark achievement in the long term.

‘‘The benefits of this may well not be seen in the short term, but I know that in 30 years time we’ll look back where we have increased massively our educational attainment,’’ he said.

Opposition Leader Bryan Green was broadly supportive of the centre, saying Labor had proposed a similar venture last year.

‘‘They actually ridiculed us at that time, it seems they’ve had a change of heart,’’ he said.

Governor Kate Warner will chair the centre’s advisory committee.