26 scholars from Nigeria (22) and Niger (4) are set to benefit from the prestigious Australia Awards–Africa Master’s Scholarships, undertaking studies in agriculture, mining and public policy. They are part of the 156 African Scholars offered the opportunity to study in Australia, in fields as diverse as engineering, science, environmental health, global food and agricultural business and disability policy and practice.
Speaking at the opening of a two-day briefing to prepare the Scholars for their departure to Australia, the Australian Chargé d’Affaires, Ms. Cleo Wilson, congratulated the Scholars.
“You have demonstrated the leadership potential required to advance development in Africa. We are delighted that you will nurture your talent and expertise in Australian universities and on your return home you will be able to make an important contribution to national and regional development,” Ms. Wilson said.
Praising Australia as a nation of boundless opportunities, the Chargé d’Affaires challenged the Scholars to take advantage of opportunities to establish personal, professional and cultural links during their time in Australia.
The Australian Government is hosting the briefing in Abuja for scholars from Niger and Nigeria. The workshop will provide an opportunity for the Scholars to gain valuable advice on adapting to their Australian experiences, coping with their academic environment and developing professional networks. Scholars will formulate plans to apply their newly acquired skills and knowledge to contribute to their countries’ development when they return home.
The Australia Awards recognizes that women bring a unique perspective and voice to the development needs of the continent and that people who are living with a disability face many barriers that limit their access to opportunities, including education and other services. In the 2019 cohort of Scholars mobilizing, 74 of recipients (representing 47 per cent) are women and seven others have indicated that they have a disability.
With new skills, coupled with a passion for contributing to their communities, the Scholars will join a network of active Alumni across the globe.
Australia Awards is a flagship development assistance program of the Australian Government providing postgraduate training opportunities for African professionals. The application process is open and merit-based, providing equal opportunities regardless of gender, ethnicity or disability. The Australian Government strongly encourages applications from women and persons living with a disability. Mechanisms are in place to support the participation of applicants requiring assistance.
The latest round of Australia Awards Masters Scholarships and Short Courses closes on 3 December 2018 and 15 January 2019, respectively. For more information on Australia Awards–Africa visit: //www.australiaawardsafrica.org/
Victor Gotevbe is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of Diplomatic Watch. He is the Managing Director of Conduit Communications Limited.
