16 Ghanaians are set to benefit from full Masters scholarships granted under the Australia Awards – Africa program starting January 2017. They are part of 144 awardees competitively selected from 11 African countries.

In preparation to live and study in Australia, the Australian Government will host a two-day workshop in Accra for the Ghanaian recipients. The workshop will provide an opportunity for the Award recipients to gain valuable advice on adapting to the new culture they are going to experience, excelling in the various courses, and developing professional networks and linkages. The forum will also explore the awardees plans to use their newly acquired skills and knowledge to contribute to their countries’ development outcomes at the completion of their studies.

With a reinforced skill set, coupled with a passion and will to serve the African people, the Awardees will join a network of over 290 alumni that continue to make significant contributions in sectors critical to Ghana’s economic development such as agricultural productivity, extractives and public policy.

The pre-departure briefing will culminate in an evening reception hosted by the Head of Mission, HE Andrew Barnes on Wednesday 19 October, 2016 at the Ambassador’s official residence. Members of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) as well as Alumni and government officials in Ghana will be in attendance. 

“The award recipients have demonstrated the leadership potential necessary to advance development in Africa. Indeed, we are delighted that through our Australia Awards program, their talent and expertise will be nurtured and that they will be in a position, on their return home, to make an important contribution to national and regional development,” says HE Andrew Barnes.

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. The Australian Government strongly encourages applications from women and persons with disability. Mechanisms are in place to support the participation of applicants and Awardees requiring assistance. The latest round of Australia Awards Scholarships and Short Courses closes on 15 December 2016 and 15 January 2017, respectively.