Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan hosts Curtin Sarawak Scholarship Winners

Perth, Thursday, 9 August 2007 – Five outstanding students from Curtin University of Technology’s Sarawak Campus in Miri, Malaysia enjoyed afternoon tea with the Education and Training Minister Mark McGowan at Parliament House this week.

The students are the 2007 recipients of a jointly funded scholarship offered by Curtin and the State Government which enables them to complete their final year of study at Curtin’s Bentley Campus.

Curtin Sarawak Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor John Evans said the five students were selected for their academic excellence, career knowledge and goals, and their ability to make a social and cultural contribution to campus life.

“The three-year scholarship scheme gives some of the best and brightest Sarawak students the chance to gain a different perspective on their field of study and experience life in another country,” Professor Evans said.

They have just commenced their second semester at the Bentley Campus and their interaction with the Curtin community has added great value to their cultural and social exchange in WA.

The Scholarship scheme was announced in 2003 by then Premier Geoff Gallop during a visit to the Curtin Sarawak Campus.

The State Government invested $75,000 in the overall scheme and Curtin meets the cost of each student’s tuition fees.

The five students are currently studying undergraduate degrees in the areas of Commerce or Engineering.

While in Perth the students have been able to participate in many extra curricular activities and community programs at Curtin and around WA.

Professor Evans said Curtin has a strong international focus and this scheme is highly valued by the University as it encourages greater interaction between WA and Malaysia.

“We are delighted with this scheme’s success and commend the State Government for its vision in supporting such an important education program,” he said.

From left to right: Ms Tan Ee Von, Mr Lai Chiong Ching, Professor Jeanette Hacket, The Hon Mark McGowan, Mr Alex Tan Wee Ping, Ms (Janet) Koo Pey Jiun, Ms Pui Chin Yen

From left to right: Ms Tan Ee Von, Jarrad Brown, Kevin McKenna, Mr Lai Chiong Ching, Professor Jeanette Hacket, The Hon Mark McGowan, Mr Alex Tan Wee Ping, Ms (Janet) Koo Pey Jiun, Ms Pui Chin Yen, Professor John Evans