More than 200 Indonesian scholarship recipients for Masters and PhD programs joined the Australia Awards Pre-Departure Training (PDT) Enrichment Week held from 8–12 September 2025. The participants are scheduled to begin their studies in Australia in 2026. This program is designed to equip them with essential skills, knowledge, and networks that will support their academic success abroad. It highlights Australia’s long-standing commitment to strengthening educational ties with Indonesia.
The enrichment week featured academic workshops, thematic discussions, and networking sessions to foster collaboration and readiness. Australian universities also provided presentations about study programs, campus life, and support services available to international students. Such sessions aim to ensure that students are well-prepared not only academically but also socially and culturally. These activities reflect the importance of holistic preparation for higher education overseas.
Counsellor for Public Affairs at the Australian Embassy Indonesia, Chloe Ashbolt, congratulated the participants while underlining the transformative nature of their journey. She emphasized that the scholars are expected to become future leaders who can deepen people-to-people relations between Australia and Indonesia. Her remarks underscored the broader diplomatic value of education exchange. This aligns with Australia’s vision of fostering long-term partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.
The program was organized by the Australian Government in partnership with several Indonesian ministries, including Higher Education, Foreign Affairs, and the State Secretariat. Scholarship recipients came from various schemes such as Australia Awards, LPDP-Australia Awards, and the Australian Centre for Agricultural Research. With over 70 years of scholarships in Indonesia, Australia has consistently invested in educational diplomacy. A new joint endowment initiative launched in 2024 further ensures that more Indonesians can benefit from world-class Australian education.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
