AUSTRALIA LD INDIA 2LST

The premier also announced scholarships of 10,000 dollars
(Australian) for Indian students under his Government's
ambitious 'Thinking Global' initiative.

During the meeting with Ravi, both sides also discussed
the possibility of having group housing and separate
transportation facilities for international students.

Seeking greater cooperation between India and Australia
in the field of IT, bio-technology and medicine, the premier
said both the countries could immensely benefit from such
collaborations.

"It is crucial that both Victoria and India invest in our
next generation of innovators and thinkers as we forge
stronger bonds and new solutions to secure the future," he
said unveiling the AUD 1.2 million 'Thinking Global'
programme.

Brumby said 'Thinking Global' is a USD 14 million
initiative to support and grow improve Victoria's
international education sector and improve the experience,
safety and well-being of overseas students in the province.

As part of the initiative, new students will be given
opportunity to team up with local students and community
organisations to help find their way around their new life in
Melbourne. PTI