Conservation scholarship launched

THE Steamships Trading Company last week announced the establishment of The Swire Conservation Scholarship in Forest Science and Conservation.

Funded by the Swire Educational Trust, successful applicants are supported as they pursue a masters in science at an international university of their choice.

Company chief operating officer, Tom Owen, is excited about the project.

"Steamships Trading is proud to be a part of this initiative, which will strengthen capacity in conservation science in Papua New Guinea," he said.

The scholarship aims to improve long-term sustainable management of tropical forests in Papua New Guinea.

"Another main objective is to extend the education of individuals of exceptional promise; to develop leadership in forest science and management in Papua New Guinea.

"Studies considered include, but are not limited to forest science, ecology, ecosystem studies, botany, entomology, silviculture, zoology, physiology and systematics.

"The scholarship will be awarded on the basis of academic merit to Papua New Guineans.

"Candidates must have or be in the process of completing an undergraduate study related to conservation and/ or forest science.

"The successful applicant must demonstrate their commitment towards conservation and sustainable management of the forests of Papua New Guinea."

Included in the scholarship are international postgraduate tuition fees for the approved course of study, a stipend for relocation costs and living expenses.

In addition, the student will have access to academic mentoring by renowned international scientists for the duration of the scholarship.

The scholarship has been developed in collaboration with Steamships Trading Company, the Smithsonian Global Earth Observatories, Centre for Tropical Rainforest Research (SIGEO-CTFS), and the Binatang Research Centre in Madang.

The scholarship builds on a three-year relationship between these parties.

In May 2010, Swire and Steamships successfully launched the Swire PNG Rainforest Study.

This project established the Swire Research Station and permanent forest monitoring plot in the Wanang Conservation Area, in Madang Province.

Last year, Swire and Steamships staff, including Owen, visited the project to gain knowledge and investigate possible next steps.

It was during this expedition that the idea of the scholarship was born.

Details about the Swire Conservation Scholarship and an application form are available at www.ctfs.si.edu/sprs, or by contacting Liz Delaney Lobo at +1.617.496.1255 or via email [email protected].

Deadline for applications for the 2012-13 academic year is March 15.