A new scholarship opportunity for Australian Muslim students offered through the Islamic Museum of Australia’s Patrons was announced today.

The Australian Muslim Academic Scholarship (AMAS) Program is a partnership between the Islamic Museum of Australia and universities across Australia including La Trobe University, the University of South Australia, Edith Cowan University, Western Sydney University and the University of Queensland.

The aim of the program is to provide development opportunities for all future Islamic leaders across Australia, ensuring gender equality and equal opportunity to all.

The program will support Year 12 graduates with high academic merits and/or young working professionals with leadership qualities to obtain graduate and/or postgraduate qualifications through one of our preferred university partners.

Islamic Museum of Australia Patron’s Chairperson Mr Khalil Shahin AO said the Fund hopes to offer ten scholarships valued at $10,000 each in its inaugural year.

“We’re committed to supporting students who experience barriers in their academic journey. The national approach is fundamental to reaching students who would benefit the most. To that end, we’re very pleased to work with universities in five states.”

Islamic Museum of Australia Chairperson Azmeena Hussain OAM said she’s excited to see applications from people of diverse backgrounds.

“This scholarship is for students who demonstrate strong leadership skills and academic performance, but who may also experience socio-economic barriers in their learning journey. Too often we see people from CALD communities miss out on academic opportunities for reasons that are out of their control, the scholarship contributes to correcting this issue,” said Ms Hussain.

The partner universities echo their support for the national approach and a dual selection focus of academic merit and equity.

More information about the AMAS Program is available from amasp.org.au

The Islamic Museum of Australia’s Patron’s support the advancement of Australian Muslims in their academic and creative pursuits.

The Islamic Museum of Australia is located in Thornbury, in Melbourne’s north. It is the only Islamic museum in the country and provides educational and cross-cultural experiences for all ages. The Museum is open 10am – 4pm, Monday to Saturday.

Quotes attributable to:

Vice Chancellor Professor John Dewar AO, La Trobe University

“La Trobe is a diverse and inclusive community, and we look forward to extending our support for Muslims in Melbourne’s north by welcoming new Muslim students to La Trobe through the Australian Muslim Academic Scholarship program.”

Pro Vice Chancellor, Engagement & Enhancement, Professor Alphia Possamai-Inesedy, Western Sydney University

“Western Sydney University applauds the vision of the Islamic Museum of Australia to establish PhD scholarships for students studying at the University. This generosity will enable students to further their knowledge and to pursue their dreams.”

Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Arshad Omari, Edith Cowan University

“This initiative will make a difference to the lives of many young upcoming leaders in various communities across Australia, and aligns strongly with ECU’s goal to promote excellence while widening participation and success in higher education.”

Vice Chancellor and President, Professor David G. Lloyd, University of South Australia

“UniSA is honoured to support applications for the Australian Muslim Academic Scholarship program in partnership with the Islamic Museum of Australia.

“There is a proud culture of diversity and inclusion at the University of South Australia and we look forward to welcoming the scholarship recipients to the university.”