KATHMANDU: Australia is a popular choice for Nepali students for higher education, and for all the good reasons. After all, “Australian universities are the best in the world and offer very good value for money. The degrees from Australian universities can be used in any part of the world including Nepal,” said Glenn White, Australia Ambassador. The Deakin University announced the launch of a new scholarship — ‘Vice Chancellor Meritorious Scholarships’ for two deserving Nepali students at a press conference in Hotel de’l Annapurna on July 31. The scholarship scheme will cover two students’ (one undergraduate and one postgraduate) “50 per cent of the tuition costs for any course within the university. The selected students will be the talent pool of the university and we will put every effort to give them support right through their studies and also in finding part-time jobs at the campus enhancing their experience with the university and Australia,” informed Ravneet Pawha, Director (South Asia), Deakin University. This is a good opportunity for students, but what is the reason to introduce the scholarship? Pawha explains the scholarship is one way of saying that we are interested in Nepal and students and encourage them to come and study at Deakin University. “We are looking for meritorious students, those who can give back to society and can make a difference in the world.” It will not be easy to get the scholarship though, but the selection will be transparent — there is a point system and at the end there will be an interview. Once the students are awarded the scholarship they need to be on their toes as their progress will be monitored. After completion of their education, it is not mandatory for them to return to Nepal. “They can work there for a few years and get some more international exposure and experience. Or if they want to come back straight away, they can,” mentioned Pawha. White advised that Nepali students should prepare themselves well in terms of knowing what they want to study. They also need to consider the financial status and be prepared to adjust to slightly different culture than what they have here.