67 Australia Awards scholars set to study in Australia
SIXTY-SEVEN emerging leaders from the Philippines are set to take up postgraduate studies at world-renowned universities in Australia through the prestigious Australia Awards Scholarships.
From May 9 to 11, the scholars underwent a predeparture briefing at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Manila. They were briefed on living and studying in Australia, and oriented on the requirements of the program.
The pre- departure briefing included finalizing the scholars’ “reentry action plans.” These plans allow Australia Awards scholars to use the knowledge and skills they have acquired in Australia to undertake programs and projects to contribute to development in the Philippines on their return, in their chosen government office, nonprofit organization or community.
“The Australia Awards Scholarships offers you, the next generation of global leaders here in the Philippines, an opportunity to undertake study, research and professional development, while engaging with Australian expertise and culture. At the end of your scholarship, you will return with new ideas, knowledge and skills that will enable you to influence reforms in the Philippines as leaders in your chosen field,” Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Amanda Gorely, said.
The scholars will be heading to Australia next month to commence their studies in important areas for Philippine development such as economics, trade, infrastructure, education, entrepreneurship, and public policy.
Two dozen of the awardees are from partner government agencies of the Australian Government including the National Economic and Development Authority, the Department of Finance, the Department of Budget and Management, the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Civil Service Commission, among others. The rest of the scholars are from the private sector, civil society, other government agencies, media and the academe.
The Australian Government has been supporting the Philippines’ best and the brightest to advance their education in Australian universities since the 1950s.
The Australia Awards Scholarships are open to talented Filipinos — regardless of gender, ethnicity or disability — who are passionate about leading positive change in the Philippines.
An Australia Awards recipient receives a full scholarship package including travel and cost of living allowance, tuition and other fees such as health coverage and supplementary tutorial assistance. Upon return, he or she will be invited to be a member of the Global Alumni Network.