The Australian High Commissioner in Nigeria, Paul Lehmann, on Monday said that eight Nigerians had been chosen to benefit from his government’s post-graduate scholarship grants to Africans.
Lehmann said in a statement that the selected Nigerians were among 144 beneficiaries from African countries scheduled for the 2017 Australia Awards-Africa Programme.
He said that the high commission had concluded plans to organise a two-day pre-departure briefing for the award recipients, to acquaint them with how to adapt in Australia.
Lehmann said: “Eight Nigerians are to benefit from full Masters scholarships granted under the Australia Awards Africa program starting January 2017. They are part of 144 awardees from 11 African countries.
“There would be a pre-departure briefing for the recipients to adapt them to the new culture awaiting them, for them to excel in their various courses, and assist them develop professional networks and linkages.
“The briefing is also aimed at acquainting the recipients on how they should use their acquired skills and knowledge to enhance the development of their country after the programme.’’
According to him, the new recipients will join 300 other alumni in Nigeria currently contributing to the development of the nation’s agricultural and extractives sectors and public policy.
He said: “The award recipients have demonstrated the leadership potential necessary to advance development in Africa.
‘’Indeed, we are delighted that through our Australia Awards programme, their talent and expertise will be nurtured to make an important contribution to national and regional development.
“Australia Awards – Africa is a program of the Australian government that provides postgraduate training opportunities for African professionals.
“The application process is open and competitive, providing equal
opportunity regardless of gender, ethnicity or disability.”
Follow The Eagle Online Channel on WhatsApp
