2017 is shaping up as a transformative year for two high-flying University of the Sunshine Coast students who have received prestigious Australian Government scholarships to study in Asia.

Information and Communications Technology student Joseph Davies and Education/Science student Raymart Walker, both of Sippy Downs, were presented with New Colombo Plan Scholarships by Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop and Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove at a recent awards ceremony in Canberra.

The scholarships, an initiative of the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, aim to boost Australia’s relationships throughout the Indo-Pacific by supporting undergraduates to study and undertake internships in the region.

Former Gympie resident Raymart, 21, who is a student member of the USC Council, will spend a semester studying at Hokkaido University in Japan, with plans to then undertake a physics research internship in Tokyo.

“I chose Japan because it is renowned for its Physics research, which is a field I am looking at pursuing in the future,” he said. “I was very, very excited to hear that I’d won the scholarship.

“I am hoping to make some new networks, gain a perspective on how science is taught in another culture, and gain some new skills in the world-class research facilities at the University of Tokyo.

“I think this program is a great opportunity for undergraduate students to accelerate their careers and gain cross-cultural competencies, as well as broadening Australia’s engagement with Asia.”

Information and Communications Technology student Joseph, 22, plans to boost his business knowledge in the high-tech hub of Seoul, South Korea, where he will study at Seoul National University.

“I’m fascinated with the Korean culture and way of life,” he said. “Since Korea is full of innovative companies and technology designed to enhance the quality of life of the country’s citizens, I feel that I will learn a lot by visiting, meeting people, and studying there.

“I’m proud to see that all my hard work studying at USC has paid off.”

The students were among only 105 recipients of New Colombo Plan Scholarships nationwide. The scholarships are worth well over $20,000 and cover tuition fees, travel and living costs.

— Gen Kennedy