Pacific Development in Focus: Australia Awards Short Course Ends with Key Insights

The Australia Awards Short Course on Development Effectiveness and Partnerships in the Pacific, delivered by The University of Queensland, concluded with a Post-Course Workshop in Jakarta on 11–12 February 2025.

The event opened with remarks from Mr. Simon Flores, Counsellor for Development Effectiveness and Humanitarian Affairs at the Australian Embassy in Indonesia, Rina Setyawati, Director of International Development Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Leni Andrayani, Head of the Finance Division at Indonesian Aid. They highlighted the importance of partnerships in driving regional development.

The course brought together 25 participants from agencies managing Indonesia's development cooperation program, aiming to foster whole-of-government collaboration and strengthen practical knowledge of Australia’s initiatives in the Pacific region. It emphasised Pacific primacy and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent as key frameworks guiding regional efforts.

The workshop featured Award Project Presentations, where participants showcased real-world applications of their learning and received peer feedback. Engaging activities, such as the Pacific Islands quiz, further enhanced teamwork and participation.

Participants praised the course for its impact. "It gave me valuable insights into Australia's partnerships in the Pacific and helped me appreciate the culture while meeting new people," shared Ida Ayu Yulie Primashanti.

The event concluded with a certificate ceremony, marking the completion of the course and the beginning of future collaborations and impact in the Pacific.

Congratulations to all participants who have successfully completed the course and are now officially Australia Awards alumni! Wishing you all the best in your future endeavours.