ANU to Welcome Refugee Students Under New Pilot Programme

By Daniel December 14, 2024
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The Australian National University (ANU) is set to welcome two refugee students from the Asia-Pacific in 2025 under its new Refugee Student Settlement Pathway (RSSP). This initiative, supported by a consortium of 16 social impact universities, aims to provide higher education opportunities for displaced youth.

Professor Bronwyn Parry, Dean of the ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences, called the programme a “ground-breaking educational pathway” that will resettle young refugees in Australia through university education. Highlighting the initiative’s importance, she stated, “This will build capacity for Australia in areas with significant skills shortages and offer these students an opportunity to become highly educated new Australians.”

Initially, the RSSP will support 20 refugee students aged 18 to 30, resettling them in Australia as domestic students. ANU, along with other participating universities, will provide English language training, academic support, and short-term accommodation to ensure a smooth transition. Staff and students at ANU will actively assist these refugees in integrating into their new communities.

Associate Professor Sally Baker, Chair of Refugee Education Australia, emphasised the programme’s broader impact, stating, “The benefits extend beyond the classroom, enhancing social cohesion, addressing key skills shortages, and enriching Australia’s multicultural society.”

The pilot initiative reflects Australia’s commitment to humanitarian efforts and higher education, offering displaced students the chance to realise their academic potential while strengthening the country’s workforce.

In related news, ANU celebrated the achievements of its academic staff at the annual Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor Awards Ceremony. Professor Philip Pettit and Gabriele Bamme received the prestigious Peter Baume Award for their contributions, reaffirming ANU’s role as a leader in education and research for Australia and the wider region.

Source: SHIKSHA

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