The journey of a lifetime has begun for 77 talented Fijian individuals who have been awarded the prestigious Australia Awards Pacific Scholarship (AAPS) and Australia Awards Scholarship (AAS). The Awards, granted for study in 2025, are to equip these future leaders with an academic qualification and contribute to sustainable development, upon return to Fiji’s workforce.
Empowering Scholars Through Pre-Departure Briefings
The transition to higher education—whether in Australia or Fiji—can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. To ensure the success of these scholars, comprehensive pre-departure briefings were held earlier this year, providing vital insights into academic expectations, cultural adaptation, and leadership development.
Australia Awards Scholarship (AAS) Pre-Departure Briefing – December 2024
On 11 and 12 December 2024, the Australia Awards team facilitated an in-depth pre-departure briefing for 39 AAS recipients, setting the foundation for their academic journey in Australia. The event was officiated by DFAT’s Development Counsellor, Andrew Shepherd, who congratulated the new awardees and encouraged them to seize every opportunity ahead.
The first day focused on key policies, contractual obligations, and award conditions, ensuring that scholars understood the guidelines outlined in the AAS Policy Handbook. Alumni speakers Jiupili Simmons and Tevita Tuibau shared invaluable first-hand experiences, offering practical advice on navigating life as a student in Australia.
Day two shifted to an engaging discussion on life in Australia, including sessions on Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) and reintegration post-scholarship. The presence of alumni from different Australian states provided awardees with a deeper understanding of life beyond the classroom.
Feedback from awardees underscored the immense value of these sessions:
“Truly appreciate this workshop, especially the sharing from the Alumni. The culture difference was important to highlight, and meeting other awardees was motivational and encouraging.”
“Thank you for a wonderful two days! I am really well-informed after this briefing. It was engaging and helpful. I cannot wait to experience this on the other side.”
Australia Awards Pacific Scholarship (AAPS) Pre-Departure Briefing – January 2024
Meanwhile, the AAPS pre-departure briefing, held on 23 January 2024 in Suva, was an equally inspiring event. The session prepared 38 awardees for their academic journey at the Fiji National University (FNU), where they will undertake diploma-level studies in fields critical to national development.
Among the eager scholars was Apenisa Nasorovakatini, who is set to pursue a Diploma in Civil Engineering. For Apenisa, the AAPS scholarship represents more than just financial support—it’s the realization of a lifelong dream.
“I’m deeply honoured and grateful to be part of this prestigious scholarship program. It means a lot to me and my parents as the financial burden of tertiary education will be taken care of,” he shared.
Apenisa’s aspirations extend beyond the classroom.
“Ever since I was a child, I’ve dreamt of achieving something in the engineering field. I have a keen interest in engineering and technology. Through considerable research, I chose civil engineering as my field of study. I will use my knowledge and skills to the best of my ability to help Fiji’s infrastructure sector by designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure that supports the daily lives of Fijians.”
DFAT’s Andrew Shepherd commended the scholars for their dedication to their studies and their potential to drive change.
“We thank you for your commitment and determination and look forward to watching you apply the knowledge and skills gained through your study to improve the current challenges and enhance Fiji’s health and infrastructure sectors.”
Shaping the Future
As these scholars embark on their educational journeys, they carry with them the hopes of their families, communities, and country. Whether studying in Australia or Fiji, they are part of a greater mission—to build a brighter and more sustainable future for Fiji.
We wish them all the very best as they take this bold step toward academic and professional excellence. The impact of their learning will not only transform their lives but also contribute significantly to Fiji’s development.
#AustraliaAwards #FutureLeaders #EducationForDevelopment
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