Media release
19 march 2008
For immediate release
Inaugural recipients of Allison Sudradjat scholarships announced
Two Papua new Guineans were among the first group of six people to receive Allison Sudradjat scholarships to study in Australia.
The awards honour the memory of Allison Sudradjat. Ms Sudradjat lived and worked in PNG as part of Australia’s aid program from 1996 to 2001, and was head of the aid program in Indonesia from 2005, until her life was tragically cut short in a plane crash in Indonesia on March 7, last year.
“Allison was deeply passionate about education as a fundamental priority, and providing opportunities to people in developing countries to participate in the leadership and growth of their countries,” said his Excellency Chris Moraitis, Australian high commissioner to PNG.
“I’m pleased to hear that two Papua new Guineans have won these prestigious scholarships. Not only do they have a unique opportunity to increase their knowledge and skills but to also make a significant contribution to PNG,” Mr Moraitis added.
Educationalist Uke Kombra and pharmacist Shirley Gaiyer-Kore left PNG earlier this year, as winners of Australian leadership awards, to start their respective courses (see attached summary for details). As awardees of the Sudradjat scholarships they will also receive additional funding for research or a professional work placement.
Ms Gaiyer-Kore works as the acting principal adviser in the policy and standards section of the national department of health.
“The selection of appropriate drugs, making sure they’re safe and effective, and ensuring they are used properly are essential factors for successfully treating and preventing the spread of diseases,” Ms Gaiyer-Kore says. It was her role to ensure that medical drugs were given in correct doses and that doctors, nurses and other health professionals had relevant and accurate information on these drugs.
It’s a responsibility Uke Kombra takes very seriously adding, “Coming back from my studies, I will be in a better position to fulfil this role.”
Mt Hagen man Uke Kombra works as the first assistant secretary in the education department’s policy and planning section. Winning one of the awards will allow him to prepare to tackle another of PNG’s significant health challenges – HIV and AIDS. He intends to develop a HIV and AIDS policy that is relevant to PNG, and can effectively be used by the education department.
Media inquiries: Roger Wheatley, AusAID public affairs, ph: 325 9333 ext 471, mobile: 697 5571