17 November 2011
Australia Supports Students to Study in National Universities
The Australian Ambassador to Lao PDR, H.E Lynda Worthaisong signed an agreement today with the National University of Laos for implementation of the Laos-Australia National Scholarships Program.
Speaking at the agreement signing ceremony, Ambassador Worthaisong said “The Laos-Australia National Scholarships will contribute to the Government of Laos’ goals for human resource development by providing additional educational opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“Australia is pleased to be funding these scholarships that will help students to gain the relevant knowledge, skills and qualifications they need for future employment opportunities in Lao PDR.” Ambassador Worthaisong said
Also present at the ceremony was HE Professor Dr Somsy Gnophanxay, Vice President,
of the National University of Laos and other representatives from key departments.
The Laos-Australia National Scholarships program aims to support academically able female and male students from remote and educationally disadvantaged districts of Laos to complete a bachelor’s degree at a Lao public university.
The program will address the critical human resource development needs in priority development sectors (such as education, trade and rural development) while working with public universities to build their organisational development for the management of scholarships and the provision of student services.
In the first year of the program, 70 scholarships will be offered to students currently studying at the National University of Laos. After a review of the program in early 2013, it is anticipated that the scholarships will be extended to other regional universities in the 2013-14 academic year.
Media contact: Kongthanou Khanthavixay
Public Diplomacy Officer
AusAID, Australian Embassy
Tel: 353800 Ext. 105