Kenyan Student Wins Prestigious Award in Australia

Francisca Atonga

Francisca Atonga who is studying for an advanced diploma of accounting at Challenger Institute of Technology in Perth, Western Australia, has won the institution’s prestigious International Student of the Year Award. The training at Challenger Institute includes job placements and Francisca is working part time as an assistant accountant at the Australian Asia Association.

Her placement at Challenger Institute of Technology was arranged by the Australian Education Consultants in Centro House, Westlands, Nairobi through the TAFE group in Australia. Geet Chana, a Director of AEC, said, “Every effort is made by us to find an institution of higher learning in Australia which suits each individual student.”

The institute’s business lecturer Peter Kerr said, “Francisca’s two years of study have been characterised by excellence. She compliments her sterling academic performance with delightful people skills and is a team player. These characteristics are very much in demand by employers.”

Unlike many people who detest the sight of taxes and balance sheets, Atonga is fascinated by accountancy. She commented: “The course at Challenger Institute focuses on practical and hands on learning which will help me to obtain employment. Through the combination of studying and part time work, I have gained confidence to tackle any area of accounting.”

In addition to providing certificate and diploma courses, Challenger Institute has articulation arrangements with Murdoch and Curtin Universities. Qualifications at diploma, or advanced diploma levels can be used to apply for university entry. They may also provide credit for up to one year in a three, or four-year degree course.

Source: The Star