The Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) has unveiled a new cost-sharing sponsorship initiative alongside Monash University, Swinburne University of Technology, and soon, Griffith University, aimed at funding Ph.D. programs for Fijian citizens studying in Australia.
This collaboration will see TSLS providing financial support for a range of expenses, including health insurance, airfares, stipends, and other costs. Monash University will offer full tuition coverage for 15 students, while Swinburne and Griffith will each cover 5 students.
With this new partnership, the total number of cost-sharing Ph.D. scholarships has risen to 39, following previous agreements with four other Australian universities. Additionally, there are 10 scholarships available through a Masters by Ph.D. program at universities in Fiji and New Zealand, bringing the overall total to 49 scholarships for the upcoming academic year. Applications for these Ph.D. opportunities are accepted throughout the year.
Professor Craig Jeffrey, Deputy Vice Chancellor at Monash University, emphasized the importance of this agreement, noting that it positions Monash as one of the largest hosts of Fijian students in Australia. He expressed optimism about the partnership, stating it aims to bolster human capacity in Fiji.
“This collaboration is not just about education; it’s about shaping a brighter future for all involved,” he remarked.
TSLS CEO Dr. Hasmukh Lal described the allocation of these scholarships as a historic moment for Fiji, poised to significantly enhance the nation’s intellectual capital. He highlighted the financial benefits of the cost-sharing scheme, which averages savings of $270,000 per student—culminating in a total savings of $10.5 million for taxpayers.
In summary, this partnership between TSLS and Australian universities represents a promising stride toward enhancing educational opportunities for Fijian students, ultimately leading to a brighter future for individuals and the nation as a whole. The collaboration underscores the importance of international educational partnerships and their potential to foster development in Fiji and the broader Pacific region.
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