Australia Awards scholars from South and West Asia with the flags of their countries in front of the National Museum in Canberra

Dec 2019

Dear Australia Awards scholars,

Welcome to the third edition of the Scholars Newsletter for this year. With the end of the year drawing near, we hope that you have had a successful and enjoyable 2019.

In this edition of the newsletter you will find links to a story and photos from our recent Scholars Forum in Canberra; reflections from scholar Mahroo Arshad from Pakistan; a story and video regarding scholar Malaka Perera from Sri Lanka; a link to our new Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment factsheet; and a list of upcoming events happening around the country that may be of interest to you.

We also encourage you to continue posting about your Australia Awards experience on social media using #AustraliaAwards.

Have a great holiday and to those of you heading back home: all the very best! Please keep in touch with Australia Awards on your return and don’t forget to connect to Australia Global Alumni on social media.

If you would like us to tell your story, please get in touch with us at engagement@australiaawardssouthwestasia.org

Best wishes,
Australia Awards – South and West Asia

Scholars Forum: working together for gender equality

Australia Awards scholars from South and West Asia gathered in Canberra in October 2019 to participate in a Scholars Forum. It was the third such Forum, and had the theme ‘Working together for gender equality in South and West Asia’. The two-day event brought together scholars from Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Gender equality and women's empowerment

Promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment is a core policy priority for the Australian Government. Australia Awards aims for equal participation by both women and men. As part of Australia Awards' gender and social inclusion efforts, a factsheet has been created to give you an overview of gender equality and women’s empowerment in Australia.

Scholar reflection: Mahroo Arshad

Having been an attendee at both previous Australia Awards Scholars Forums for South and West Asia, Mahroo Arshad from Pakistan was pleased to be an emcee at the third. These are some of her reflections on the Scholars Forum and insights about her Australia Awards Scholarship journey.

Poised to develop Sri Lanka's education sector

Scholar Malaka Perera from Sri Lanka is currently completing a Master of Education. The connections he has made in Australia have given him access to valuable information and advantages, both professionally and personally. Malaka is looking forward to returning home and making a difference in the Education sector of his country.

Upcoming events in your state

Follow the link below to learn about upcoming events in your state that may be of interest. Events include those for professional development and networking as well as social events that will provide an insight into Australian life and culture.