The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) would like to congratulate Mr Joseph Sabatino on his recent completion of a Bachelor of Urban Development obtained at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT).
Mr Sabatino was one of TSRA’s Assistance with Tertiary Education Scheme (ATES) Scholarship recipients; a yearly scholarship to assist students in the Torres Strait region commencing or completing university study.
The TSRA Chairperson, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, said the TSRA is proud to support Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginals from the region to obtain formal academic qualifications.
“The ATES first commenced in 2002, and was created as an opportunity for students who are determined to succeed and are committed to learning. The TSRA has since sponsored at least 80 students,” Mr Stephen said.
“The biggest challenges to obtaining formal university qualifications for many people in the region is the cost of study and living away from home.
“The ATES scholarships, valued at $6,000 a year, are designed to assist students with their study and living away expenses to ease the financial burden on them, so they can focus on their studies.”
Mr Sabatino was chosen as a recipient of the ATES Scholarship twice, over the years of 2014 and 2016.
“Mr Sabatino, relocated to Brisbane from his home on Hammond Island to undertake his degree. In keeping with the spirit of the ATES Scholarship, Mr Sabatino has demonstrated a strong commitment to bringing his skills and knowledge back to benefit the Torres Strait region,” Mr Stephen said.
For information about the ATES Scholarships or any other capacity building programs, please contact the TSRA on (07) 4069 0700 or email info@tsra.gov.au.