Returning for Cambodia’s Development – Veng Pitou

I’m feeling accomplished and excited about completing my Australia Awards Scholarship! Earning my Master of Economics and Public Policy marks one of the biggest milestones in my personal and professional journey. I can’t wait to return to Cambodia and apply all the knowledge and connections I’ve gained.

Academically, receiving three Dean’s Awards for Academic Excellence over three semesters has boosted my confidence immensely. Living in Australia has been vibrant and memorable—my wife and I loved our daily life in Brisbane, from grocery shopping and public transport to sunset walks. We also cherished exploring Australia’s stunning cities and nature. In addition, I continued developing my kendo skills, passing three grading exams, training for the Australian National Kendo Championship, and becoming a proud member of the Brisbane Kendo Club. The support and sense of community I found there were incredible.

I’ll truly miss Brisbane’s hospitable climate, convenient public transport, beautiful green spaces, lively community markets, and those breathtaking golden hour views from the CityCat ferry. I’ve got tender thoughts about leaving these things behind and will miss them the most about Australia.

Now, I’m looking forward to reuniting with my family in Cambodia after two long years. I can’t wait for warm, delicious home-cooked meals and riding around Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, rekindling beautiful memories and enjoying street food with my loved ones.

Veng Pitou
Master of Economics and Public Policy
The University of Queensland