Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Veterans David Harris today formally announced the 20 NSW students awarded a NSW Government scholarship to travel to Japan in September.
The Premier's Anzac Memorial Scholarship students, hailing from Lismore in the state's north to Albury in the south-west, will travel to Japan for a historical study tour to learn more about our nation's involvement in the Second World War.
The students will visit a number of significant sites, including a former Australian POW Camp in Naoetsu, the Yokohama War Cemetery and the Hiroshima Peace Park and Memorial.
More than 180 students from 152 government and non-government high schools across NSW applied for the scholarship.
Applicants submitted a personal essay and a letter of recommendation from their school, initially assessed by History teachers, followed by a selection panel including representatives from NSW Government, the Anzac Memorial and the History Teachers' Association of NSW.
A military and social historian will accompany the students to give insights into our nation's military past and develop their understanding of the importance of commemoration for the 30 September to 10 October 2024 tour.
Minister Harris, along with Consul-General of Japan in Sydney Shuichi Tokuda and Vice-Consul of Japan in Sydney Katsumi Shimmura, meet the students and their parents and caregivers at a pre-tour gathering and Service of Remembrance at the Anzac memorial in Sydney today.
More information about the Premier's Anzac Memorial Scholarship is available here.
NSW Premier Chris Minns said:
"I would like to congratulate the Scholarship recipients, for their interest in our nation's military history and also their willingness to honour and respect the service and sacrifice of our veterans and members of the Australian Defence Force.
"The students will further develop their knowledge and understanding of the history of Australians at war as they visit important places associated with Australia's military history."
Minister for Veterans David Harris said:
"Victory in the Pacific, and victory over Japan brought the Second World War to an end. It was the first time that our nation was under direct threat and the efforts of our veterans helped bring this war to a close. This trip will be a deeply meaningful experience.
"As a former school principal, it means a lot to me that our government supports students and current generations to continue to learn about the important military history of New South Wales and our nation."
Celine Chandrasegaran, a student of Saint Mary Mackillop College said:
"This is a great opportunity to increase my gratitude for those who have served, and who continue to serve, in both Australia and the wider world. I'm so excited to connect more with Australia's past, particularly in relation to our military history with Japan."
Joshua Davison, a student of Oran Park Anglican College said:
"Through retracing the steps of Australia's involvement in war, we not only honour the legacy of those who served but also fortify the collective bonds that unite us as a nation."
