From learning to leading: Australia Awards Scholars Symposiums build scholars’ capabilities

Posted: 17 December 2025

Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Experience, In Australia, Scholar,

Between October and December, 180 scholars from South Asia and Mongolia attended Australia Awards Scholars Symposiums across six major cities. These events supported scholars to develop leadership skills, share experiences, and build lasting networks.

Each symposium opened with an address from a representative of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), underscoring the transformative potential of the Australia Awards and the importance of supporting scholars as future changemakers.

Scholars, DFAT officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and Australia Awards representatives at the 2025 Scholars Symposium in Canberra.

The events featured panels of distinguished speakers who offered practical advice on leadership, networking and advocacy. Scholars consistently cited these panels as a source of inspiration and practical guidance, with many remarking on the value of hearing diverse perspectives and real-world strategies for effecting change.

Each symposium also featured leadership and/or communication training provided by an expert facilitator. These sessions assisted scholars to reflect on their personal leadership styles, build their networking skills, and prepare for their return home.

The second day of each event was dedicated to reviewing and updating attendees’ Development Impact and Linkages Plans / Reintegration Plans, allowing scholars to connect their academic journeys in Australia with their ambitions for positive change at home.

Each symposium concluded with cultural engagement activities led by First Nations Australians. Scholars participated in experiences ranging from art lessons to boomerang throwing, fostering a deeper appreciation of Australia’s Indigenous heritage.

Perhaps most significant was the sense of community and cross-cultural exchange across the events. Scholars repeatedly emphasised the value of networking with peers from across the region, sharing stories, and building lasting professional and personal connections. As Bhutanese scholar Dorji Wangdi reflected, attending the symposiums “didn’t just open doors, it built bridges”—a sentiment echoed by many.