Prime Minister’s Asia Endeavour Awards success for Monash students

Five Monash University students have been awarded Prime Minister's Asia Endeavour Awards, allowing them to continue their research at some of the most influential educational institutions in Asia.

Monash University's Niken Wijaya, Alexander May, Michael Chin, Catherine Sell and Cameron Tantau are among 40 students nationwide awarded the prestigious scholarships in the postgraduate and undergraduate categories.

The Prime Minister's Asia Endeavour Award is designed to support Australian postgraduate or undergraduate students seeking to enrich their academic experience while studying or undertaking collaborative research at leading universities in Asia.

The Awards aim to build the relationship between Australia and Asia through the development of internationally-aware, skilled leaders and the establishment of long-term education and professional linkages.

Niken Wijaya, currently undertaking a Masters of Engineering Science, will complete further study in chemical engineering at the East China University of Science and Technology.

Doctor of Philosophy student Alexander May is looking forward to opportunity to further research in his chosen field of biochemical and molecular biology at the Tokyo Institute of Technology. 

Michael Chin, currently completing his Juris Doctor will pursue legal studies at Shanghai Jiao Dong University’s Koguan Law School. He hopes to pursue study into issues related to the privacy of cross-border transactions.

Catherine Sell is currently undertaking a PhD in Arts and will travel to Japan as a visiting scholar at the Kyoto Seika University, where she will complete further research in translating and interpreting the Japanese language.

In the undergraduate category, Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering and Bachelor of Commerce student Cameron Tantau will travel to Japan to further his studies into nanotechnology engineering at the University of Nagoya.

Each winner will also have the opportunity to undertake an internship or work placement at the completion of the study component.

Professor Stephanie Fahey, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement) said the awards further enhance Monash University’s reputation as a globally-focused university that encourages its students to look at how Australia engages with the world.

"Monash University is committed to a global approach in its education and research activities. This commitment is reflected in the large number of successful Monash students again this year," Professor Fahey said.

“The continual success of our students with awards such as the Prime Minister's Asia Endeavour Awards shows the desires of our students to further their learning capabilities and opportunities overseas.”

For more information contact Glynis Smalley, Monash Media & Communications + 61 3 9903 4843 or 0408 027 848.