With over 400 students already benefiting since 2007, RSL Queensland and Bond University are again offering $500,000 in grants to high achieving senior school students this ANZAC Day.
The 2011 RSL Youth Development Program opened on ANZAC Day (25 April 2010) to all Queensland students entering years 11 and 12 in 2011 and closes on Remembrance Day (11 November 2010).
A total of 180 grants are up for grabs, 30 more than in 2010. Winners will each receive $2500 and the top 10 percent of the highest achieving finalists will get greater recognition via a $5000 grant.
Grants are awarded in the categories of Academic achievement; Sporting achievement; Community Leadership and Civic Participation including Art, Drama, Media and Design.
RSL Queensland President Doug Formby said the programme’s opening and closing dates were a fitting reminder to those applying of the sacrifices made by the country’s servicemen and women.
“The RSL Youth Development Program offers outstanding leadership and educational opportunities to Queensland’s youth while at the same time striving to promote awareness of ANZAC history and values,” Mr Formby said.
“By increasing the number of grants to be awarded in 2011, RSL Queensland is giving more students the opportunity to pursue their goals and aspirations.”
Bond University Vice Chancellor Professor Robert Stable said the University was proud to partner with the RSL to recognise and reward young Queenslanders.
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“We are committed to the RSL scholarship program and believe strongly in the opportunity these grants provide to support young talent throughout the state,” said Professor Stable.
“Such is our commitment, this year, for the first time, grant recipients will have the opportunity to apply for an exclusive 50 percent scholarship to study at Bond University once they complete year 12. This scholarship is truly exciting as it provides a pathway to tertiary education for these young Queenslanders,” he said.
Students will be required to highlight their achievements, submit a personal reference and write an essay about the importance of the RSL and ANZAC values to Australia’s youth.