LORD HOWE Island BOARD
Business Paper
ITEM
Lord Howe Island Scholarship Program
BACKGROUND
In September 2011, the Board agreed to expand the Young Islander Scholarship Program to include University, TAFE, and / or private tertiary education providers in recognition of the demand for other skills on the Island.
Following recent discussion with local Board members, it is proposed that the scheme be expanded to allow others persons over the age of 25 and non Islanders to apply, where there is a demonstrated benefit to Lord Howe Island.
COMMENT
The Board has prepared an Expressions of Interest (Attachment A) for eligible persons for financial support to obtain their first tertiary qualifications.
Priority will be given to the following study areas:
· Trades (Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, Automotive (Diesel) Mechanic)
· Business / Government (Administration, Accounting, Human Resources, Information Technology, Local Government and Tourism)
· Environmental (Horticulture, Conservation and Land Management)
· Health and Social Care
Funding ($10,000) has been allocated in the 2012-13 budget to provide assistance to two persons (Ms Courtney Turner – now complete, and Ms Lani Thompson – Year 2). Subject to 2013/14 funding approval by the Board, applications for scholarships under the program will be advertised.
In order to assist with selection of a suitable applicant, an application form has been prepared (Attachment B).
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board:
1. Note the above information
2. Endorse the expansion of the Scholarship criteria to allow persons over the age of 25 and non-Islanders to apply where there is a demonstrated benefit to lord Howe Island;
3. Provide in principle support for the continuation of funding over the next 3 years; and
4. Approve the Expression of Interest be placed on public exhibition.
Prepared David Kelly Manager Environment & Community Development
Endorsed Stephen Wills Chief Executive Officer