As part of the /Australian Scholarships/ initiative, 150 new /Australian Development Scholarships (ADS)/ will be on offer to eligible Vietnamese citizens to commence studies in 2009.

/Australian Scholarships/ is an initiative of the Australian Government aimed at promoting the sustainable development and excellence in education of the Asia-Pacific region. In 2007 over 240 Vietnamese were selected to participate in the /Australian Scholarships/ initiative, representing an investment of more than A$20 million (equivalent to VND 260 billion).

The Australia Government has worked in partnership with the Government of Vietnam on a development cooperation program to assist Vietnam to reduce poverty and achieve sustainable development for many years. The /ADS/ program forms an important part of the development cooperation program, accounting for over 20 percent of the annual program budget.

Since 1992, more than 2,000 Vietnamese students have been trained in Australia with the support of the Australian Government.

The /ADS/ scheme looks to contribute to the long-term development needs of Vietnam by promoting good governance, economic growth and human development; and through enhancing links between people and institutions in both countries. /ADS/ awards are highly prestigious, with a strong alumni network throughout Vietnam.

/ADS/ provides an opportunity for talented individuals to obtain post-graduate qualifications in Australia. Eligible areas of study are related to the strategic priority areas under the Vietnam-Australia bilateral relationship.

There are two categories under the /ADS/: *Priority Public Institutions* which targets employees working in key public institutions in Vietnam who will provide potential leadership for future reform in the public sector; and *Open* which provides opportunities for applicants in the private sector, civil society, as well as, public institutions who have a strong commitment to driving Vietnam’s development.

You can call the ADS Hotline on (04) 762 3707 - Monday to Friday 1.00 pm to 5.00 pm during the application period, 2 July to 10 August 2007.

The ADS Application Package including a list of current Priority Public Institutions and the eligible fields of study can be downloaded from the ADS website www.ads.edu.vn

For further information on /Australian Scholarships/ go to www.australianscholarships.gov.au