Kathmandu: The Association of Nepali Alumni today marked the 60th anniversary of Australian assistance in education sector in South East Asia.

On the occasion, Australian Ambassador Susan Grace launched Endeavours of Excellence – over 60 years of scholarships in South East Asia.

“For more than 60 years, the pursuit of knowledge has been an enduring feature of many of Australia’s regional relationships,” she said. Nepal is currently the eighth largest source of country’s international students, the Australian embassy said. Around 370 Nepalis have benefited from Australia Awards.

“Moreover, the Australian Government continues to enhance international student experience, bolstered by recent review of Australia’s student visa programme,” the embassy said.

On November 5, Australia implemented a number of changes to the student visa programme. Student visa applicants now need to include a confirmation of enrollment letter, issued by their intended education provider. The financial requirements have been slashed. A new genuine temporary entrant criterion has been put in place.

The criterion will be assessed at the interview and will be based on students’ background and the value of course, embassy said.

source: The Himalayan Times, 29 Nov 2011