Scholarships broaden horizons for talented Queenslanders

Talented Queenslanders with vocational or trade qualifications have until the end of this month to apply for Queensland Overseas Foundation scholarships to improve their skills internationally.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said four $7000 scholarships were on offer.

“The scholarship program helps people who have achieved apprenticeship qualifications within the last two years to gain an international perspective on their industry and test their skills in a new and challenging environment,” Mr Welford said.

“While overseas, scholarship recipients have the opportunity to develop their technical skills through work experience and on-the-job training, and they have the option of pursing advanced studies.

“It’s also an opportunity for overseas employers to see the calibre of vocational training delivered in Queensland.

“The Foundation will provide return airfares, travelling and relocation expenses and help arrange a period of employment of between one to two years in an overseas country.

“Winners then return to the Smart State with their new training and make a valuable contribution to Queensland industry.

“The skills of our people will shape the future of our state. Our Government is working to build the skills and knowledge of Queenslanders to meet the demand for skilled workers. By 2020, it is our goal that three out of four Queenslanders will hold trade, training or tertiary qualifications so we have the human resources to continue building our state.”

The 2004 scholarship winner, Ryan Maslem, travelled to London to work with building management systems company, DWEC Europe.

Ryan said he was exposed to technology that was mainstream in Europe, but had not yet arrived in the Australian market.

“I built a strong relationship with my employer, DWEC Europe, and on my return to Australia, I formed DWEC Australasia with my past employers,” Ryan said.

“I would highly recommend international study or work experience to any other young Australian. Testing your skills in a new environment while seeing the world is an investment you just can’t put a dollar value on.”

To find out more, or to download an application form, visit www.qof.org.au or telephone (07) 3345 5899. Applications close on 31^t October 2008. The Queensland Overseas Foundation is a non-profit organisation, sponsored by industry and supported by the Queensland Government.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000