2 hours Ago By Bramo Tingkeo
A total of 90 Papua New Guinean students have been selected to receive the prestigious Australian Awards Somare-Whitlam Scholarship for the 2025 cohort. This scholarship, named in honor of two great leaders, Papua New Guinea’s Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and Australia’s Gough Whitlam, represents the enduring bond between our two nations. These students will join a distinguished alumni network of the Australian Awards scholars who are making significant contributions across various sectors in PNG.
The recipients were chosen based on their academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to contributing to PNG’s development. They represent the best and brightest of Papua New Guinea’s young minds, eager to learn and apply their knowledge to nation-building. Minister for Department of Higher Education Research Science and Technology, Kionka Feo, emphasized the value of this opportunity, stating, “This is a gift, not a loan, we don’t deserve this.
People of Australia have given to us this opportunity for many of our young people to be able to go and study.” He highlighted the significant investment made by Australia, revealing that each scholarship amounts to approximately K150,000. The Australian Government’s investment in the scholarship reflects its commitment to fostering strong bilateral ties with PNG and supporting the country’s human capital development.
This investment underscores Australia’s enduring commitment to Papua New Guinea’s prosperity and progress. The 90 selected students will have the opportunity to gain valuable skills and knowledge that will enable them to make a positive impact on their communities and the nation. Minister Feo also acknowledged the impact of Australian support, stating, “Not just scholarships, but building infrastructure in our education facilities.
You go to UPNG, you go to Unitec, you go to PAU, you have a word, there’s almost a bundle of infrastructures built by the Australian government. And so we thank you for your commitment.” The Somare-Whitlam scholarship will retain the original name “Australian Awards Scholarship” as the co-badging is only to honor the 50th Independence Anniversary of PNG in 2025.
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