Bright Futures Ahead for Australia Awards Indonesia Nusantara Scholars

The Australian Embassy Jakarta had the pleasure of hosting a reception for the exceptional Australia Awards Indonesia Nusantara Scholarship recipients on 5 October 2023, marking a pivotal milestone in their journeys. The reception buzzed with enthusiasm as Ambassador Penny Williams PSM congratulated them on their achievements and wished them success in their academic pursuits at Monash University Indonesia, commencing this month.

“Education has the power to transform individuals, communities and nations. Australia is delighted that the Nusantara Scholars will commence their studies at Monash University Indonesia this week,” said the Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Penny Williams PSM. “Each of these talented individuals will receive a world-class Australian education right here in Indonesia, equipping them with knowledge, skills and networks to contribute to Indonesia’s new capital.”

The scholars also had the privilege of connecting with esteemed Australian alumni, including Deputy of Planning and Land Affairs of the Nusantara National Capital Authority, Mia Amalia; Head of the Technical Bilateral Cooperation at the Ministry of State Secretariat, Noviyanti; and President of Monash University Indonesia, Prof Andrew MacIntyre. Discussions were rich with ideas for shaping the future of Nusantara.

"This scholarship paves the way for my Masters in Public Policy and Management. I aspire to build a platform connecting policymakers and researchers, ensuring that Nusantara's development is evidence-based, inclusive, and sustainable," said Made Anthony Iswara, one of the scholars.

Another scholar, Diella Zuhdiyani, said, “This scholarship enables me to pursue a Masters in Business Innovation, unlocking doors to numerous previously inaccessible opportunities. I'm excited to leverage my knowledge, skills, and network to understand the challenges and opportunities of Nusantara from a digital transformation perspective and to contribute to the nation's economic development.”

The Australia Awards Indonesia Nusantara Scholarships embody the Australian government’s commitment to nurturing talent and knowledge exchange, which is crucial for developing Indonesia's new capital city, Nusantara.

Ten scholars were selected from a competitive field of more than 500 applicants by a panel of Indonesian and Australian academics and Nusantara National Capital Authority representatives. They were chosen for their potential to become global leaders and agents of change, with the professional, personal and academic potential to contribute to Indonesia’s development.

Monash University established the first Australian university campus in Indonesia in 2020. The Nusantara scholars will study for up to two years at Monash University Indonesia and attend leadership training in Australia. These scholars are the torchbearers of change, and their dreams hold the key to a brighter future for Indonesia.  

Stay tuned for their incredible journey as they embark on this transformative experience!