Wow. Almost $1.4 billion for more than 19,000 scholarships in only five years. That’s what we call a remarkable programme.

For those who just read my first few sentences, and are dead bewildered by what I’ve just said, here’s the explanation: The Australian government recently set aside around $1.4 billion for the Australian Scholarships programme. This programme comprises of three distinct scholarships - the Australian Development Scholarships (ADS), the Australian Endeavour Scholarships, and the Australian Leadership Awards.

According to reports, 9,700 scholarships will be offered under the Australian Endeavour Scholarships programme, 6,600 scholarships under the ADS programme, and 3,200 scholarships will be provided under the Australian Leadership Awards programme.

These scholarships will primarily be awarded to students in Asia-Pacific developing countries, with each scholarship programme aimed at a particular segment of society.

[News via Fiji Times Online]