A large and diverse cohort of Australia Awards (AA) scholars has commenced studies at The University of Queensland (UQ), with students from 26 countries joining one of the program’s most significant intakes to date.
Reflecting the development focus of the AA program, many members of this year’s cohort are mid‑ to senior‑level professionals working in fields central to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Scholars bring experience from national governments, multilateral organisations and regional institutions, including the World Health Organization (Indonesia), the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (Solomon Islands), the Department of Justice and Attorney-General (Papua New Guinea), the Asian Development Bank (Timor‑Leste), and the World Bank (Marshall Islands).
A total of 93 scholars began UQ’s 4‑week Introductory Academic Program in January, marking a more than 20 per cent increase on last year’s intake. The cohort represents 26 countries, including many with renewed and expanding participation such as Benin, Bhutan, Laos, Maldives, Nauru, Solomon Islands, Timor‑Leste and Zimbabwe. Most scholars are enrolled in postgraduate coursework programs, alongside 10 Higher Degree by Research candidates and 5 undergraduates.
Pro‑Vice‑Chancellor (Global Partnerships) Brett Lovegrove said the growing number of AA students at UQ highlights the importance of higher education partnerships in strengthening regional capability.
“These scholars bring diverse perspectives and deep contextual knowledge to their studies, along with a commitment to driving positive change in their home countries,” Mr Lovegrove said.
“Their contributions enrich UQ’s learning environment and reflect the broader role universities play in building resilient communities, strengthening institutions and supporting long‑term development outcomes across the region.”
The students marked the completion of their preparation program at the IAP Completion Ceremony on 13 February, signalling the beginning of their UQ studies. The event, which was attended by representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), the Consulate General of the Philippines, and senior UQ leaders, also provided opportunities for scholars to meet peers, connect with academic staff, and engage with professional networks as they commence their studies in Brisbane.
Funded by the Australian Government, the AA program supports partner countries to build skills and institutional capacity through high‑quality education and international collaboration. The program contributes to key UN Sustainable Development Goals by strengthening professional expertise and fostering inclusive development across the region (e.g. SDG 4 – Quality Education, SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, and SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals).
For more information about the Australia Awards program and UQ’s global engagement initiatives, please contact the Global Partnerships team: global.partnerships@uq.edu.au
