By GEORGINA MICHAEL
The Australian government has launched the Australian Awards program for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) students in Papua New Guinea.
Under the STEM program, 10 PNG students have been selected to undertake four years undergraduate studies Australian universities next year.
The Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Ewen McDonald, said: “It’s a great pleasure to welcome you all to the official launch of Australia Awards, science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM scholarship.
“Students, there’s nothing better than being the first pilot group , and the first pilot representing a new chapter in PNG and Australia’s shared commitment to education innovation and sustainable development.
“You are the first recipients of the award, the recipients of the pilot and you are the pioneers. You are the first cohort to take this unique opportunity.
“You’ve been selected for your academic excellence as well as your leadership potential, your vision for a better and more sustainable future, and for your determination to excel at what you do. You are the sort of ambassadors and leaders that we love to have in our counties.”
PNG Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra said: “The Australian awards program is basically geared towards post graduate studies. But given the STEM program, we have requested the Australian High Commission to consider this as a polish possibility of taking some of our STEM students as well.
“The Australian government has accepted to what we have with us today 10 STEM students to study in Australia.
“We are not paying any auditions to your employment. But if there is employment opportunity back in PNG, we would like you to come back. The expectations that we have are for you to return to Papua New Guinea and take up a carrier and be a part of the development in PNG.”
Dr Kombra thanked the Australian government for the unique opportunity to increase the number of STEM students. PNG had a total of 368 students have furthered their studies through this STEM program in countries like Fiji, India, China. Malaysia and now with the additional of 10 new students under the Australian Awards STEM program added it up to 378 students so far.
One of the representatives from the 10 STEM students Leanne Bartsaka said: “The launch of this scholarship is more than just financial support. It is a bridge between dream and reality. It serves as a pathway that expands STEM science, technology, engineering and mathematics in PNG.
“This scholarship shows us that we are recognized for our efforts, and the world is ready to welcome our potential in return, we promise to make the most of this chance to learn enormously and to grow fully.”