Attracting the best and brightest
It’s a highly competitive scholarship awarded to some of the best and brightest individuals in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
The Australia Awards, administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, aim to contribute to the development needs of Australia's partner countries in line with bilateral and regional agreements. Recipients must outshine tough competition in their home countries to be awarded the scholarship, which provides opportunities for people from developing countries, to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at universities and further education institutions in Australia.
James Cook University is delighted to host to a number of these outstanding individuals, each furthering their education with a view to return with their enhanced knowledge and skills to be put to use for the betterment of their own countries.
One such recipient is Arnoldus Ananta. He is studying a Master of Science (Professional) in Fisheries Science and Management, with the scholarship providing tuition fees; airfares; and financial contributions towards accommodation; study and living expenses and more.
Arnoldus had an impressive career in his home country of Indonesia where he hails from the West Papua Province. He worked as a lecturer assistant and participated in several marine and economic focused research programs at Universitas Papua (University of Papua).
We asked Arnoldus about his experiences thanks to the Australia Awards Scholarship, how he is enjoying life in North Queensland and what he plans to do with his higher education when he returns to Indonesia…
Standing out from the crowd
I learned about this scholarship through my colleagues and seniors who also had the same opportunity to study in Australia. I joined the English language assistance program run by DFAT Australia in 2017 and received the scholarship in 2019.
Personally, having this prestigious scholarship is a significant achievement for me. During the selection process, I was competing with more than 5000 applicants from my home country. I believe what made me stand out was my story—my work experience, what I have accomplished in my province, and what I aim to achieve after completing my Masters degree to contribute to my home province.
After I graduated with a Bachelor degree in 2016, I worked as a lecturer assistant at the University of Papua. Here, I worked on capacity building projects and the implementation of maritime-oriented education models aimed at elementary (primary) schools in West Papua Province.
I also participated in several research projects in West Papua Province within the fields of fisheries and marine conservation. These included:
- Master Plan for Fishermen Settlements in South Manokwari Regency West Papua Province (2018)
- Sustainable Fisheries Survey in Mimika Regency Papua Province (2017 & 2019)
- Survey on the Economic and Social Impacts of Ministerial Regulations in West Papua Province (2016)
- Sustainable Management of Flying Fish in the waters of Fakfak, West Papua Province (2017-2019).
Equipped for positive change
After completing my postgraduate course at JCU this year I hope to become a specialist in the fields of fisheries science and management. I aim to develop instructional ideas based on research and to create and promote effective and equitable practices for all practitioners. I aspire to be a researcher and policymaker in non-governmental organisations and higher education institutions, addressing the progress and challenges through biological science approaches in Indonesia, particularly in West Papua.
I believe the knowledge, theories, and practical skills that I have acquired so far during my studies will contribute to society, the community, and my home province in terms of human resource capacity building. I aim to join others who have succeeded in pursuing their dreams of studying overseas and returning to their origins to effect positive change for the future generations of our homeland.
I chose JCU because it offers many programs related to marine science and fisheries. I also found that JCU has an excellent track record in terms of research, publications, and cited research.
When I first arrived I experienced culture shock, which is normal for most international students. However, I found living in the northern part of Queensland promising. The locals here are friendly, there are relaxing beaches, the tropical weather is similar to my homeland and there are many opportunities to join clubs or local groups in Townsville.
Embracing the international student experience
I really miss the food and also my family. However, it is not long until I finish my studies here at JCU and return home.
Joining many clubs, volunteering in various programs, and participating in outdoor activities outside of campus have greatly helped me to balance my life as a student and to embrace life outside university.
Living overseas is challenging and homesickness is common. I faced many difficulties during my first semester and almost gave up on my dreams.
However, I realised that this country and this university, along with all the people here, provide us not only with an opportunity to study, but also to be part of the community.
Looking for a unique study opportunity?
If you're an international student looking for an exciting and enriching university experience then James Cook University is for you. With two main campuses situated in stunning Far North Queensland, you'll be immersed in the Australian way of life as you live and study alongside World Heritage-listed sites such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.
Discover the courses JCU has to offer and apply today to join our diverse and welcoming community.
Find out more about Scholarships at JCU
JCU has a range of scholarships available to international students. We also work with external organisations who offer scholarships to international students seeking to study with us.
Discover what funding or support may be available to you by exploring our Scholarships page. If you have a question about your specific circumstances, reach out to our International Team who are always happy to assist you with your enquiry.