Qais Khalil - Developing National Policy Agenda in Palestine

Qais Khalil returned to Palestine at the end of 2014, after completing his Masters in Public Administration and Diplomacy at the Crawford School of Public Policy at the Australian National University.

The Australia Awards scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships offered to Palestinian officials. Australia’s tertiary education system has a great reputation, further, no constraints on a candidate’s age.

‘I could say it was a very broad and rich experience. In study, I gained a rich, wide and diverse spectrum of knowledge, skills and research experience which developed my capacities. I had the chance to interact with a diverse, multicultural society, which educates me more about other cultures, not only in Australia but across the world’.

The Australian National University has maintained its rank as number one Australian university for years, and one of the top 20 worldwide. The ANU’s strong reputation as a tertiary institution, with high quality of education, and the fact that it counts Nobel laureates among its graduates, all motivated Khalil to apply for the scholarship at the university. But, the experience was even better than he’d expected.  

‘I found it interesting to see how culturally sensitive my university was. In my first week, I was invited to an international gathering – a barbecue – at the university. The coordinator noticed my concern, as a Muslim, about possibly being served non-halal meat. Within the same night, they amended the catering menu and provided a separate grill for halal food only, which I found very respectful and responsive on the part of the university.’

With a deeper understanding of public administration and diplomacy, Khalil returned home to share his knowledge through his position as Head of Aid Management at the Palestinian Ministry of Interior.

‘I benefited from my study and try to apply new knowledge and skills in my job. For example, I applied some of my new expertise to my institution in working on developing the National Policy Agenda. Further, I gained number one position in the admission exams by national school of administration leadership program, which was a reflection of what I gained from my international study in Australia. Further, I participated in global conferences on Public Administration science joining global forums and networks.

Khalil is still socially and professionally active with the alumni. They have initiated an official network, and gather occasionally with the Australian Representative Office in Ramallah. Khalil still in touch with friends and professors from Australia and around the world. His scholarship experience is one that he will never forget.

‘I found Australian people to be very friendly. They appreciate hospitality and principles of humanity. I would like to thank the Australian Government and people for providing this chance of impressive experience.’