First Vietnamese student secures Monash ASEAN award

The award will support Hanh’s studies towards a Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Science Advanced (Honours) in 2026.

Hanh was selected from a highly competitive field of students commencing at Monash in 2026.

She was excited about the opportunity to study in Melbourne, a city that holds strong familial ties for her.

“My father gained his Master of Digital Communication degree from Monash, and my sister currently lives in Melbourne, so I’m excited to be carrying on the family tradition,” she shared.

“My experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic inspired me to one day contribute to vaccine research and development.

“I looked into many Australian universities, but Monash’s pharmaceutical rankings put it above the rest for me,” she said.

“I’m so thankful that the awards scheme has enabled me to pursue this career dream.”

Monash University Vice-Chancellor Professor Sharon Pickering said Hanh’s story encapsulates why Monash is committed to providing accessible world-class education to the region.

“The ASEAN Awards program is not just financial support, but also recognizes potential, nurtures ambition, and creates opportunities for students who will go on to make meaningful contributions in their communities and beyond,” said Prof. Pickering.

“It’s also about enriching our campuses with the diverse perspectives and energy that students like Hanh bring with them,” she stressed.

“Southeast Asia is a vibrant and dynamic region, rich in cultural diversity and talent.

“At Monash, we’re deeply committed to empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators from ASEAN countries, and to fostering a more inclusive, collaborative future across our region,” said Professor Pickering.

The Vice-Chancellor’s ASEAN Awards program is a AU$2.5 million (US$1.6-million) package to support high-achieving undergraduate students from across the region by easing the cost of study through bundled tuition support, relocation assistance and funding for other associated costs.

Students are selected through a competitive process, with eligibility across Vietnam, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.

Since the initial announcement of the program in August, the university has committed a further AU$1 million ($665,300) to the ASEAN Pathway Awards, which support high-achieving ASEAN scholars to enrol in Monash College, a pathway institution that provides programs like diplomas and foundation years to help students transition into the university.