ISLAMABAD, Dec 20 : The Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) has selected 14 Pakistani students for masters-level study in Australia.

These students will study in the areas of governance, environment, health and education from the academic year 2002, according to a press release.

AusAID arranged a pre-departure briefing for the scholarship holders on December 20 to prepare them for living and studying in Australia and to maximise students’ ability to adjust to life in that country.

In his welcome address, the High Commissioner for Australia, Mr George Beardsley, emphasized the advantages of pursuing higher education in Australia and was confident that the rich and varied experience would provide the students with skills that would help in Pakistan’s development.

The objective of the scholarship programme is to enhance Pakistan’s human resource capability in key areas affecting the country’s efforts towards poverty reduction and sustainable development.

This year, scholarships have been awarded to six female and eight male candidates. The programme is open to both public and private sector candidates.