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15 October 2007
43 Lao Nationals offered scholarships to study in Australia
Another forty three scholarships for study in Australia were awarded to Lao Nationals by the Australian Government and Lang Xang Minerals last week.
The Australian Government has been providing Australian Scholarships for tertiary training in Australia for more than twenty years to assist Lao PDR with its economic, social development and human resource needs. Australian Scholarships provide Lao people with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive change and influence the development of the Lao PDR. The program supports gender equity by providing an equal number of scholarships to males and females.
The success of the Australian Scholarships has been the hundreds of young Lao returning home to use the skills and knowledge acquired in Australia. “There are almost 800 graduates making important contributions to development in Lao, drawing on the skills and knowledge gained through their commitment and with support from the Australian Government” said Michael Hassett (First Secretary, Australian Embassy) when he congratulated the Australian Scholarship winners on Friday 12 October 2007 at Vientiane College.
Mr Hassett further stated that “Many scholars are now in senior decision making positions, in government, international organizations and in the private sector. Our Alumni includes a Vice-Minister, the dean of a faculty at National University of Laos (NUOL), an ambassador and other diplomatic levels. Australian scholars are particularly valued for their high level analytical and critical thinking skills.”
Another important aspect of the Australian Scholarship program in Lao PDR is a partnership with Lane Xang Minerals Limited (LXML - a subsidiary company of Australia’s Oxiana Mines Ltd). Lane Xang Minerals provides three scholarships each year for study mining-related disciplines. After completing their studies, LXML scholars will work for LXML and contribute to economic development in Lao PDR. Mr Peter Albert, LXML Executive General Manager - Asia said: “Lang Xang Minerals are very proud to be the first private company and of being part of providing scholarships to Lao citizens.
Mr Hassett and Mr Albert agreed that the most important outcome of the Scholarship program is the deepening ties it supports between Australia and Lao. They encouraged the Australian Scholarship winners to work hard at their studies but also to develop an understanding of Australian culture and to share their own cultural background.