Constructing bright futures

Two first year engineering students at James Cook University have been given a helping hand with their studies to the tune of $40,000.

Amy Lovisa and Nathan Garland have each been awarded a BHP Billiton Yabulu Scholarship worth $10,000 for each year of the students’ four-year degrees. In addition to the financial aid, the students will be able to complete their compulsory practical component of the course at the Yabulu site with paid employment.

The scholarship is designed to ease the financial pressure on the students as well as providing an insight into the resource industry.

Professor Yinghe He, Acting Head of School of Engineering said the scholarships are component of a strong relationship between the University and BHP Billiton.

“The scholarship support offered to Year 12 students by BHP Billiton is having a positive impact on enrolment numbers in Engineering,” Professor He said.

“Students who receive BHP Billiton support can concentrate on their academic studies and in addition the students have the opportunity for paid vacation employment that delivers a practical balance to their engineering studies,”

“BHP Billiton Yabulu has been particularly supportive of Chemical, Electrical & Mechanical Engineering,” he said.

Representatives from BHP Billiton Yabulu including its general manager Mr Malcolm Mayes will join Professor He and JCU’s Vice Chancellor Professor Sandra Harding in presenting the awards to Amy and Nathan at a special ceremony today, Friday July 4 at 10.30am.

Issued: Friday, July 4, 2008

For more information contact Jo Meehan, JCU Media, on 4781 4586 or 0437 028 175