July 3, 2024
The Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service (TSLS) signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Newcastle (UON). This strategic partnership aim to foster collaboration for joint funding of the Ph.D programmes for Fiji citizens enrolling at the university.
The signing of the MoU is significant given UON’s reputation and strengths in research areas to address Fiji’s national priority areas. This collaboration will enhance the human capacity and contribute towards socio-economic solutions in Fiji.
TSLS Board Chairperson, Ms. Ro Teimumu Kepa said that the signing of the MoU is a remarkable step of UON’s commitment in providing support to the Fiji Government through the cost-sharing initiative, that will pave towards providing research-based solutions to ever-competing challenges that Fiji faces in the areas of environment and climate, clean energy, medicine and public health and inclusive education.
She further stated that for the 2025 academic year, the Fiji Government has established a new Scheme for Ph.D & Masters Cost Sharing with the Australian universities.
The University of Newcastle is the first on board. Under Ph.D & Masters Cost Sharing Scheme the Fiji Government will cover costs such as Overseas Insurance Health Cover, Airfares, Stipend, and other costs while the University of Newcastle will cover the full tuition fee of (5) five eligible Fiji citizens.
She further stated that this collaboration will enhance university’s contribution towards Fiji’s socio-economic solutions. Fiji, as a Pacific Island Country welcomes University of Newcastle’s Pacific Strategy which will deepen mutual relationship.
The University of Newcastle’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky said that the partnership between University of Newcastle and TSLS is a shining example of how collaborative efforts can drive academic and research success.
“Our university is very pleased with the active collaboration already in place with TSLS which enables more students to come study at our university and more of our staff and students, to learn more about Fiji”, said Professor Alex Zelinsky.
He further stated that the Ph.D Scholarship programme, supported by tuition fee waivers, is a critical component of this partnership, enabling scholars to pursue important research projects. The signing of the MoU further strengthens this collaboration, ensuring its sustainability and continued impact.
“Through these efforts, the University of Newcastle and TSLS are making significant strides by creating opportunities for research students”, said Professor Alex Zelinsky.
For any media queries or more information please contact on email communications@tsls.com.fj or phone 8921240.
Board Chairperson for Tertiary Scholarships & Loans Service, Ms. Ro Teimumu Kepa and Vice Chancellor for The University of Newcastle, Professor Alex Zelinsky.
Tertiary Scholarships & Loans Service and The University of Newcastle
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