31 Nepali students were granted post graduate AusAID scholarships in a variety of sectors on Wednesday to pursue further studies in Australia in 2013, according to a press release issued by the Australian embassy. Education Secretary Suresh Man Shrestha and Australian Ambassador to Nepal, Susan Grace, handed over Australia Awards to Nepali recipients at a function organised by the Embassy.

Of the 31, 14 are women and four are government employees. The scholarships span fields including health, education, governance, livelihoods, water and sanitation and forestry, identified as priorities for the development of Nepal.

On the occasion five alumni were also honoured with Australian Alumni Excellence Awards in the categories of business leadership, outstanding young alumni, community service, Endeavour, and AusAID award for outstanding contributions in their fields and advancement of relations between the two nations.

As the largest provider of scholarships in Nepal, the Australian Government currently invests over AUD 300 million annually in scholarships through its global Australia Awards program.

source: The Himalayan Times,5 Dec 2012