Forty-eight Vietnamese scholars and professionals have been selected to receive prestigious Australian Endeavour Awards for study, research and professional development in Australia in 2010.

The total value of these awards is up to AUD6.7 million, equivalent to VND114 billion, the Australian Embassy said.

“The 2010 Endeavour awardees are excellent scholars and potential leaders. I believe that after their return from Australia they will apply their new skills and knowledge to contribute to Vietnam’s development” Australian Ambassador Allaster Cox said in a statement.

Twenty-six scholars were presented with their awards at a function held at the Australian Ambassador’s residence in Hanoi Wednesday.

The other 22 scholars receive their awards in Ho Chi Minh City soon, the embassy said but did not tell a day.

The Australian Endeavour Awards are selected on merit through an international competition. They develop leadership, research and academic excellence and build linkages between Australia and other Asia-Pacific countries, according to the Australian Government.