KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 1
Nineteen Nepali students have been selected for the Australian Government's prestigious Australia Awards Scholarships, enabling them to pursue postgraduate studies at leading universities in Australia beginning in 2026.
The scholarships were presented jointly by Australia's Ambassador to Nepal, Leann Johnston, and the Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Choodamani Paudel, during a ceremony held on Thursday.
This year's cohort includes 13 public-sector professionals, 11 women and two persons with disabilities, reflecting the program's emphasis on inclusion and leadership.
Congratulating the recipients, Secretary Paudel thanked the Australian Government for expanding opportunities for Nepali scholars. He said the international exposure and networks gained in Australia would strengthen the scholars' capacity to contribute to Nepal's development. "Human capital is central to national progress, and programs like the Australia Awards support our shared vision of a more prosperous and innovative Nepal," he said.
Ambassador Johnston urged the scholars to embrace the diversity of multicultural Australia and build lasting academic and professional connections. "The Australia Awards reflect the strength of our partnership and our shared commitment to inclusion, education and leadership," she said.
Funded by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Australia Awards Scholarships offer emerging leaders the chance to develop advanced skills, research experience and global networks. Many alumni later assume senior roles in government, civil society and the private sector.
Scholarships have been a cornerstone of Australia's foreign policy since the Colombo Plan of the 1950s. To date, more than 1,300 Nepalis have studied in Australia through the Australia Awards program, which invests about AUD 3.8 million (USD 2.5 million) annually.
Applications for the next round of scholarships will open in February 2026.
