The Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) has partnered with Monash University, Swinburne University of Technology, and soon Griffith University, to provide funding for Ph.D. programs tailored for Fijian citizens pursuing their education in Australia.
This strategic partnership enables the TSLS to cover vital expenses, including health insurance, airfares, stipends, and additional costs associated with studying abroad. Specifically, Monash University will be responsible for full tuition fees for 15 students, whereas Swinburne and Griffith will each cover 5 students’ tuition fees.
With this new initiative, the total number of cost-sharing Ph.D. scholarships reaches 39, expanding on earlier agreements with four Australian universities. Notably, there are also 10 Ph.D. scholarships available under a Master’s by Ph.D. program at local and New Zealand universities, bringing the overall total to 49 scholarships available for the upcoming academic year. Applications for Ph.D. programs are open year-round.
Professor Craig Jeffrey, Deputy Vice Chancellor at Monash University, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that it will position Monash as one of the largest hosts for Fijian students in Australia. He expressed enthusiasm about enhancing human resources in Fiji through this collaboration, signaling a commitment to foster educational growth.
TSLS CEO Dr. Hasmukh Lal described this opportunity as a historic moment for scholarships in Fiji, which he believes will significantly bolster the nation’s intellectual capacity. He also noted the financial benefits of the cost-sharing scheme, which saves an average of $270,000 per student. In total, this educational collaboration will lead to savings of approximately $10.5 million for taxpayers, thanks to favorable negotiations and a developmental focus from Australian universities towards Fiji and the Pacific region.
This initiative is a promising step towards enhancing educational opportunities for Fijian students, as it not only alleviates financial burdens but also strengthens ties between Fiji and prestigious Australian institutions. Such collaborations are vital in creating a platform for Fijian scholars to excel in their respective fields and contribute positively to their home country’s development.
The future looks bright for Fijian students seeking advanced education, as this partnership fosters greater educational access and paves the way for a new era of academic achievement.
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