Twenty students from NSW to travel to the Republic of Korea and Singapore for Premier’s scholarship
Premier Chris Minns and NSW Minister for Veterans David Harris today announced the 20 NSW students awarded a NSW Government scholarship to participate in an international history tour to the Republic of Korea and Singapore in September.
The Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship (PAMS) students come from all corners of the state from Armidale in the north, Jindera in the south and Orange in the west. They will visit a number of sites significant to the war history of both nations.
The tour of the Republic of Korea will include Gapyeong – the site of the Battle of Kapyong; Maryang San, the Incheon landing site and the UN First Battle Memorial. In Singapore, the tour will include sites such as the Kranji War Memorial, Changi Prison Chapel and Museum and the Fort Siloso and Surrender Chambers.
More than 150 students from 112 NSW high schools throughout New South Wales applied for the scholarship, from a range of government and non-government schools in cities and the regions.
Applicants submitted a personal essay and a letter of recommendation from their school, initially assessed by current and former history teachers. A shortlist was then reviewed by representatives from NSW Government, the History Teachers Association of NSW, and two former PAMS accompanying teachers.
The tour takes place in the Term 3 school holidays from 29 September to 10 October 2025. Accompanied by a military historian, students will receive insights into our nation’s military past and develop their understanding of the importance of commemoration.
Minister Harris will formally welcome the students at the Anzac Memorial in July alongside two Korean War veterans for a comprehensive tour briefing. The students will also receive their research tasks, meet with the tour historian and accompanying teachers and attend a commemorative service in the Hall of Memory.
More information about the Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship is available here: https://www.veterans.nsw.gov.au/education/premiers-anzac-memorial-scholarship/
NSW Premier Chris Minns said:
“A huge congratulations to our scholarship recipients.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to learn first-hand about Australia’s military history.
“It is heartening to see how many young people applied for this scholarship and are engaged in our nation’s military history.”
Minister for Veterans David Harris said:
“As a former school principal I am a big supporter of this program and know how important it is our government continues to support the current generation to continue to learn about the military history of our state and our nation.
“More than 15,000 Australian soldiers were captured in Singapore, more than 7,000 would die as prisoners of war. Only five years after the end of the Second World War, Australia became involved in the Korean War; sadly there are only a small number of Korean War veterans still with us.
“This trip will be a deeply meaningful experience for these students as they visit such important historical sites and learn more about the service and sacrifice of our veterans.”
2025 PAMS Accompanying Teacher, Helen Rook, Coffs Harbour Senior College said:
“There is no substitute for standing where history was created – to feel its weight. Immersive journeys bring the past alive, allowing us to glimpse the truths of war, pay respect to our service men and women and learn deeply, alongside the privilege of guiding the bright minds shaping tomorrow.”
Syedda Nazeeya from Macarthur Girls High School said:
“This opportunity is a powerful way to honour the sacrifices of those who served, and reflect on how they shaped the history and values of our country. I’m excited to stand where history unfolded and deepen my understanding of Australia’s role in each region we visit.”
Angus Jeffery from James Sheahan Catholic High School said:
“I am really looking forward to the opportunity to travel overseas to past Australian battlefields and learn more of our military history. My great-grandfather was a prisoner of war in WW2 and spent time in Changi. This trip will not only expand my knowledge of Australian history but I’m looking forward to representing my family, my school and Central West NSW.”
MEDIA:
Dan Conifer | Premier |0456 723 037
Matt Porter | Minister Harris | 0407 239 578