Fijian citizens now have expanded opportunities for pursuing PhD programs in Australia, thanks to a new sponsorship partnership involving the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS), Monash University, Swinburne University of Technology, and soon Griffith University. This collaboration aims to alleviate financial barriers for students seeking advanced education abroad.
Under this initiative, the Government through TSLS will cover various expenses including overseas health insurance, airfare, stipends, and additional costs associated with the programs. Monash University will fully fund the tuition fees for 15 students, while Swinburne University and Griffith University will finance five students each. This results in a total of 39 scholarships available in this cost-sharing PhD scheme.
The application period for the PhD scholarships will remain open year-round, providing flexibility for prospective applicants. Prior to enrolling in a PhD program, students must complete a Master’s program, which can be undertaken at either a local university or through a separate scheme in New Zealand.
Professor Craig Jeffrey, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (International) of Monash University, highlighted the university’s commitment to hosting Fijian students, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for their academic pursuits. Dr. Hasmukh Lal, CEO of TSLS, emphasized the potential returns on this investment, estimating an average savings of $270,000 per student for taxpayers, culminating in an impressive total savings of $10.5 million for the program.
This initiative not only enhances educational opportunities for Fijians but also stands to significantly contribute to the intellectual capital of Fiji’s workforce, nurturing a generation equipped with advanced knowledge and skills.
Overall, this partnership symbolizes a progressive step towards empowering Fijian students and strengthening ties between Australia and Fiji, fostering an environment of collaborative growth in education.
In summary, the new sponsorship program marks a significant opportunity for Fijian students aspiring to pursue PhDs in Australia, offering considerable financial support and paving the way for a brighter future through education.
Leave a comment