On Friday, 30 May, the School of International Studies hosted its annual student prize-giving ceremony, celebrating the outstanding achievements of students in the discipline of global cultures and languages. The event brought together around 150 guests, including students, their families, staff, and invited dignitaries, for an evening that highlighted academic excellence, cultural engagement, and community connection.

The evening began with a welcome from Professor Julian Droogan, Head of School, who offered a few reflections on the role of language learning in today's interconnected world. Dr Wes Robertson, Discipline Chair of Global Cultures and Languages, guided the evening as host and emcee, helping to create a warm and engaging atmosphere.

This year, 23 students were recognised with 21 prizes across nine languages and disciplines. Among the distinguished guests were the Consuls. General of Greece, Italy, Argentina, and Uruguay, as well as representatives from the Australia Taiwan Culture Foundation, Croatian Studies Foundation, Alliance Française de Sydney, Goethe-Institute, MQ Greek Studies Foundation, Australia-Japan Society of NSW, and others.

A highlight of the evening was the introduction of new awards, reflecting the school's growing international partnerships. The Taiwan travel grants, supported by the Australia Taiwan Culture Foundation, became the university's first community-funded scholarship for cultural and language exchange with Taiwan. These awards acknowledge students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting mutual understanding through study and cultural engagement.

Two new prizes were also introduced under the Macquarie Japanese Studies (MJS) Centre grant scheme, funded by the Nippon Foundation, to recognise achievement in Japanese language study at the intermediate level.

Held in a warm and celebratory atmosphere, the event proved to be a key moment in the new school's calendar. Feedback from families and guests was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to celebrate students' accomplishments in such a meaningful way.

Some students travelled from outside Sydney to attend the event, including one who made the trip from Perth, highlighting the significance of the occasion for participants and their families.

Among those in attendance was Mr Edward Lin, CEO of the Australia Taiwan Culture Foundation, who travelled from Brisbane to present the Taiwan travel grants and share the foundation's mission.

"I'm delighted to witness these students' growth from their Taiwan experience," said Mr Lin. "It is our hope to continue building meaningful and grassroots connections between young Australians and Taiwanese society."

Prize-giving Ceremony 2025 reaffirmed the school's commitment to recognising student excellence and supporting global citizenship through the study of languages and cultures.