Four Curtin University undergraduate students are set to take their studies global after being awarded prestigious scholarships in the 2025 New Colombo Plan (NCP) Scholarship Program.
The scholarships will enable Lloyd Allen, Elliott Mitchell, Julian Tearney and Jasmine Trinh to live, study and undertake internships while they immerse themselves in the language and culture of host countries across the Indo-Pacific region.
Curtin Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne CNZM congratulated the scholars on their life-changing achievement.
“Being awarded a New Colombo Plan Scholarship is a testament to the academic excellence and leadership potential of these talented young people,” Professor Hayne said.
“These scholarships will allow Lloyd, Elliott, Julian and Jasmine to broaden their horizons, foster connections and contribute to deepening Australia’s ties with our regional neighbours.
“I look forward to seeing the impact they will undoubtedly make and wish them every success in this exciting chapter of their lives.”
Lloyd Allen, a Bachelor of Arts and Commerce student (Japanese Double Degree Major), will spend time at Kobe University in Japan.
The 21-year-old from Parkwood said he’s deeply honoured to receive the NCP Scholarship for 2025.
“This achievement reflects years of preparation and the invaluable experiences that have shaped my journey,” Mr Allen said.
“In Japan, I will complete my Honours in Economics, focusing on labour mobility trends and exploring how Japan and Australia can enhance mutual trade relationships.
“I look forward to applying the knowledge and connections I gain to strengthen Australia-Japan relations and sharing my passion for this very special relationship with peers, professionals and the broader community.”
Elliott Mitchell, currently studying a Bachelor of Science (Earth Sciences Major), will travel to Singapore to further his studies at Nanyang Technological University.
The 21-year-old from North Fremantle is eager to address climate change and contribute to global solutions.
“Being awarded this scholarship is an honour and I am very excited for the opportunity to further my academic career on such an amazing program,” Mr Mitchell said.
“I plan to expand Australia’s relations and collaboration with Singapore and the South East Asian region, using geophysics and earth sciences to improve our energy security and renewable energy utilisation moving into the future.”
For 20-year-old Julian Tearney from Padbury, the New Colombo Plan will allow him to study at Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University.
The Curtin University student has just completed his second year of a double degree in Physics and International Relations.
“I’m excited to learn more about Singaporean culture and network with many new people. I hope to use the NCP experience to pursue my goal of becoming a science diplomat for international STEM organisations,” Mr Tearney said.
“I plan to intern with the Singapore Institute of International Affairs and as someone who loves astronomy and playing the saxophone, I’m also keen to participate in those university clubs.”
As an aspiring Environmental Consultant, Jasmine Trinh, hopes to create meaningful change.
The 21-year-old from Bedford is completing a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) (Environmental Science Major) and will travel to Seoul National University in South Korea.
“I’m beyond excited to explore South Korea’s innovations in green energy and circular economy, which resonates deeply with my passion for sustainability and creating a better future,” Ms Trinh said.
“This opportunity means so much to me and I look forward to gaining insights that could help shape Australia’s transition to a circular economy while fostering ties with the Indo-Pacific to tackle our shared environmental challenges.”
The New Colombo Plan, an Australian Government initiative, aims to lift knowledge of the Indo-Pacific in Australia by supporting undergraduates to undertake study, language training and internships in the region.
