Kathmandu- Jan 14, 2014. Professional Development and Research Center (PDRC) in coordination with Australia Awards organized a seminar entitled “Australia Awards Scholarships – Nepal Intake 2015” with an objective to disseminate information about Australia Awards, its requirement and benefits. Australia Awards are prestigious international scholarships funded by the Australia Government offering the next generation of global leaders an opportunity to undertake study, research and professional development.

Mr. Anuj Chhetri, who is the Country Coordinator of Australia Awards, talked about the award and then highlighted on why Australia is one of the best destinations for higher education. He also applauded the self-learning education system of Australia. In addition, he briefly talked about the benefits of being involved in the alumni network that has global and regional connections. Another presenter, Mr. Khyam Bahadur B K, who is also a Scholarship Management Associate, shared the scholarship benefits and the intake 2015 for Nepal. He advised participants to focus more on priority sector and the field of interest, which are very crucial components of Australia Education Institutes and the award itself.

Both presenters also talked about the eligibility criteria which includes age limit, residency, IELTS requirement, work experience in the relevant field, equivalent concerns and of course the inclusion considerations. They further shared information on general procedures of applying for the award and referred some important link and websites including Online Australia Scholarship Information System, shortly known as OASIS.

In their concluding remarks, both highlighted the selection criteria, document requirement, tentative timeline and specific tips. The participants raised some of their personal concerns with regard to meeting the eligibility criteria and it further clarified the confusion. The seminar was concluded by the vote of thanks from PDRC’s acting executive director Rup Sunar. The next call for the scholarship is scheduled to be published on February 1, 2014 and the application submission deadline is 30 April.

The seminar was held at PDRC office in Kalanki, Kathmandu. Around 20 perspective participants were present in the seminar.