Australian Alumni Networking Reception

The Australian Embassy in Phnom Penh, together with the Australian Alumni Association of Cambodia (AAA-C), co-hosted the ‘‘Alumni Networking Reception” on 13 November 2015 at Sofitel Hotel to celebrate the achievements of all Cambodians who have studied at an Australian University. This networking reception brought together Australian alumni to share memories, celebrate achievements, renew old friendships, and build new networks.

“Studying in Australia is a life-changing experience for many Cambodians, and Australia is an increasingly popular destination for Cambodian students”, said HE Ms Alison Burrows, the Australian Ambassador. According to the Ambassador, up until 2014, over 2,000 Cambodian students (both scholarship and private) have studied at an Australian higher education institution.

HE Dr Hang Choun Naron, the Minister of Education, Youth and Sport, graced the AAA-C with his presence for the second year, following on from the reception last year. This year’s reception saw more than 400 alumni and distinguished guests from the government, civil society and private sector. The Minister was proud of the support of Australia to Cambodia through human resource development. He acknowledged the potential contribution of the Australian alumni and encouraged that the alumni use their knowledge and skills to create more jobs for the Cambodian workforce.

At this auspicious occasion, Mr Eang Bunthan, the AAA-C President, announced and presented the “Alumnus of the Year Award 2015” to HE Tia Phalla, Vice Chair of the National AIDS Authority, for his dedicated work in public health over the past twenty five years. His significant work in HIV/AIDS reduction in Cambodia is very tangible and is recognised nationally, regionally and globally. This award was the second annual award, following on from the inauguration in 2014 which was awarded to HE Say Samal, the Minister of Environment.

HE Ms Alison Burrows and HE Dr Hang Choun Naron also took this great opportunity to farewell 41 Australian Awards departing awardees and 5 Endeavour awardees who are going to embark for their Master and PhD Degrees in Australia early 2016. We wish them all the best and success in their studies!