The public sector has 120 new experts, specialists and potential leaders following graduation ceremonies at the Crawford School of Public Policy at The Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra.
The graduates include 87 Crawford graduate studies students, 26 National Security College students and seven PhD scholars.
Director of the Crawford School, Professor Helen Sullivan said that although last week’s graduation ceremony marked the end the students’ formal time with the ANU, it should not mark the end of their relationship with the School.
“I hope all our graduating students continue to stay in touch with Crawford through the alumni program and through maintaining the friendships and connections that they have developed in their time here,” Professor Sullivan said.
Recipient of the Master of Public Administration Prize as the top student in the degree program, Pakistani Public Servant Syed Muhammad Ali Shah said his studies had transformed his outlook on public policy.
Mr Shah, who worked in the Provincial Civil Service of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, came to the ANU under an Australia Awards Scholarship.
“When I applied for the Scholarship, Crawford was my first choice,” Mr Shah said.
“I could have gone anywhere, but one of my good friends back home had been to Crawford and other people had very good impressions and wonderful memories of it.”
He said the Crawford School of Public Policy had taught him there was more than one way of approaching a policy issue.
“When I go back, I will be contributing in my own humble capacity and authorised mandate to the overall improvement of the situation in my country in a more informed and enlightened way,” Mr Shah said.
