PA/31/11 1 August 2011
From the Office of the Australian Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills, Jobs and Workplace Relations, Senator Chris Evans
Australia-India education exchange program fostering friendship and understanding
Indian and Australian school teachers and principals are continuing to share cultural and professional experiences as part of a unique exchange program.
Minister for Tertiary Education, Senator Chris Evans, today joined celebrations to mark the 13th year of the Australia-India Principals and Teachers Professional Learning Exchange Program.
At a reception, hosted by Springdales School in New Delhi, Senator Evans met with Principal, Mrs Ameeta Mulla Wattal, a previous participant of the program and strong advocate of bilateral education cooperation between Australia and India.
“Five of Springdales’ teachers, including Principal Wattal, have participated in this popular program,” Senator Evans said.
“This is a highly successful bilateral exchange program which has stood the test of time. I am pleased that the Indian Government is joining Australia in funding this program for the next three years.
“Since its inception in 1998, more than 150 Indian and around 200 Australian school principals and teachers have participated in the program.
“It is a good example of how education can bring people of different cultures together, and how it can strengthen the bilateral ties between our nations.
“It encourages better understanding of our respective cultures and societies as well as offering a chance to share administration and teaching practices.
“The benefits also flow to the students who have an opportunity to learn about another culture.”
Senator Evans is leading a delegation of Australia-India Education Council members, Vice Chancellors and senior university executives to India this week to foster collaboration between relevant Australian and Indian education and training institutions, business and industry; and to explore opportunities and provide support for reciprocal exchanges and professional development.
Senator Evans’ Media Contacts: Karen Brown +61413 080 956; Rhys Davies +61411 138 572