Over 70 people joined an Australia Awards alumni function on Thursday 20 August 2020 to acknowledge new graduates and to celebrate 40 years of friendship between Australia and Vanuatu. Alumni, new graduates and others involved with the Australia Awards from across Vanuatu’s public and private sector took the opportunity to share experiences and ideas.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Vanuatu, Her Excellency Sarah deZoeten, congratulated new Australia Award graduates and welcomed them into the alumni network. She highlighted the power of the network as a group of dynamic professionals and leaders from various fields across government, private and community sectors, making substantial contributions to Vanuatu.
“You have returned to Vanuatu with goals and visions to apply your skills and knowledge to making a difference. Strong networks will help you do this. They give space to learn and opportunities to apply your knowledge with others,” said the Australian High Commissioner.
The Australia Awards alumni network for Vanuatu was launched in 2016 and now has over 400 registered alumni. Members have access to regular professional development and networking opportunities to support their career goals. The network has created an environment for like-minded professionals to share ideas and support Vanuatu’s development.
The keynote speaker for the night was Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC)’s Country Director for Vanuatu and Nauru, Ms Anna Naupa. She emphasised the ability of the network and its members to make a difference for Vanuatu.
“I encourage each of you to reflect on where you have been and where you are now. The experiences you have been through and the skills you have gained have led you to where you are now. In the midst of this COVID-19 pandemic, we need to use the skills we have gained and be determined to do what is right for our country,” Ms Naupa said.
Australia and Vanuatu continue to work together in partnership to provide additional academic pathways for Vanuatu’s best and brightest and to support them in their journey in contributing to their country’s ongoing success.
For more information, please browse Australia Awards Vanuatu website or contact us here.
About Australia Awards
Australia has provided development assistance to Vanuatu for many years. Scholarships provide opportunities for Ni-Vanuatu to study in Australia or the Pacific region. Australia Awards scholarships address human capacity needs in Vanuatu and build people-to-people links.