Australian High Commission
Papua New Guinea

Australia Awards Alumni empowered as change makers across diverse fields

Papua New Guinea and Australia’s dynamic partnership and the enduring benefits of education are on show this week at a reintegration workshop for recent graduates of the prestigious Australia Awards Scholarships program.

The 52 graduates are taking part in the workshop in Port Moresby from 20-21 June to deepen links with other alumni and future employers and connect with the PNG Australia Alumni Association (PNGAAA), which will continue to support them into the future. 

Participants completed studies in Australia late 2018 and early 2019 in priority sectors such as health, education and governance. The workshop’s key aims are to further develop ethical leadership capabilities and support the leadership role Australia Awards Alumni can play in Papua New Guinea’s economic and social development.

Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor for Governance, Mr Andrew Egan, commended the alumni’s achievements and encouraged them to share their experiences as they returned home.

‘You are the change makers. You are the people with the knowledge and skills to bring positive change to the people of your great country, in all of the sectors you work in,’ Mr Egan said.

Each year, the Australia Awards program – funded by the Australian Government - offers approximately 90 full-service scholarships to Papua New Guineans to pursue qualifications in Australia.  It also offers opportunities to study at institutions in Papua New Guinea.

The program exemplifies Australia’s enduring commitment to Papua New Guinea as part of its Pacific Step Up, and places a priority on gender equality and women’s empowerment.  At least 50 percent of all scholarships are awarded to women.

One such scholar is Rulin Ketauwo, who recently graduated with a Master of Public Health / Master of Business Administration from James Cook University in Queensland and is taking part in the workshop this week.

‘It’s time to build a better Papua New Guinea. With our newly acquired qualifications, we hold the power to affect lives, make decisions and drive change in our societies,’ Ms Ketauwo said.

‘I was privileged to take part in the Australia Awards program and look forward to keeping up the immensely valuable knowledge and connections I made during my time in the years ahead.

Australia Awards are prestigious international scholarships and fellowships funded by the Australian Government, offering the next generation of global leaders an opportunity to undertake study, research and professional development.

Australia Awards alumni are expected to drive change, contribute to Papua New Guinea's leadership capacity, influence priority regional development issues in Papua New Guinea, and build strong partnerships and linkages between Papua New Guinea and Australia as well as organisations from both countries.

For more information, please contact [email protected] or visit www.australiaawardspng.org or contact the Australian High Commission media team on 7090 0100.