In anticipation of the 30th anniversary of long-term scholarships and academic opportunities for Mongolians to study in Australia, the Australian Embassy in Mongolia launched the year-long celebration for alumni and guests at its Australia Day event on 27 January.

Over the past 30 years, more than 700 Mongolians have received equitable, prestigious, and transformational Australia Awards scholarships. The event was widely attended by representatives of the Government of Mongolia, diplomatic missions in Mongolia, international organisations, Australia Awards – Mongolia, the Mongolia-Australia Chamber of Commerce, Australian Volunteers International, the Australian Mongolian Extractives Program, the Mongolia Australia Society, and Australia Awards alumni.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Katie Smith, Ambassador of Australia to Mongolia wished the attendees a happy Australia Day. She emphasised that 2023 is especially important as it marked the 30th anniversary of Australia Awards Scholarships in Mongolia.

Ambassador Smith continued that the mutual friendship and respect between the two nations provide many benefits to our people, business-to-business ties, and government organisations all of which strengthen the Australia-Mongolia relationship. Ambassador Smith noted that Australia Day is an opportunity to reflect, respect, and connect with all Australian friends and Australian Alumni in Mongolia. Finally, she thanked attendees for their participation in sharing the celebration together with the Australian community.

Representing the Government of Mongolia, Ms. Bulgantuya. Kh. Minister and Head of the Parliamentary Friendship Group wished the Australian community in Mongolia a happy Australia Day. She briefly explained that since the program began offering scholarships in Mongolia in 1993, over 700 graduates have now been actively contributing to the development of Mongolia. She highlighted the support provided by the Australian government and Australian organisations in various sectors, especially in the mining industry. Finally, Bulgantuya. Kh thanked the Australian Government for offering the opportunity for Mongolian people to study long-term scholarships and academic opportunities in Australia.

Following the opening remarks, Enkhtuvshin. L, Country Program Manager of Australia Awards – Mongolia discussed the past successes of Australia Awards – Mongolia and ongoing programs such as Australia Awards Scholarships, Australian Professional Opportunities, Short Courses, Women’s Leadership Program, and alumni grants.

At the end of the session, the attendees had an opportunity to expand their networks and enjoyed a cultural performance by ‘Khusugtun’ Mongolian ethnic band, the Australian and Mongolian anthems, and other popular songs performed by Australia Awards alumni.