Airwallex and University of Melbourne take on tech skills shortages

Financial tech company Airwallex has teamed up with the University of Melbourne to assist in easing continued tech skills shortages.

The three-year, $3 million investment from Airwallex will support information technology and engineering students attending the University of Melbourne. Airwallex has a long-standing relationship with the university; the four founders of the company met there.

Jack Zhang, co-founder and CEO of Airwallex said: “Our partnership with the University of Melbourne marks a significant step-change in our contribution to building the tech leaders of tomorrow. It’s an honour and a privilege to be in a position to give back to the community that's been a part of the Airwallex story from day one.”

“Airwallex was founded by looking beyond what’s possible, and we want to empower students to do the same. Whether through scholarships or grants, Airwallex guest lectures or events, our partnership aims to drive innovation and provide meaningful support to the next generation of technology professionals and leaders,” said Mr Zhang.

The announcement included:

• 42 financial scholarships, up to $15,000, with a chance to intern at Airwallex
• Training in technology
• Events, awards and facilities to engage and teach students
• A one-time payment for up to 100 students

Mr Zhang continued: “We understand deeply the tech talent challenges facing businesses today. By providing students with opportunities and support from inside the sector, this partnership aims to grow the local talent pool and ultimately, strengthen Australia’s tech and start-up ecosystem. I look forward to seeing the next generation of Australian tech leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators, benefit from this partnership and make their mark in the world.”

Professor Mark Cassidy, dean of the university’s faculty of engineering and information technology commented on the partnership: “It is very exciting to see alumni, such as Jack and his co-founders, achieve such success with their own business and be able to give back so generously to the next generation of technology professionals and Australia’s broader tech sector.”

“The Airwallex scholarship and opportunity programs will make a real difference to our students’ ability to focus and continue with their studies each year, while the enrichment and idea programs will equip our students with the knowledge and mindset to become leaders in the workforce,” said Professor Cassidy.

By providing career opportunities and financial support for students, Airwallex hopes it will help ease tech skills shortages.

The Tech Council of Australia predicts in its ‘Getting to 1.2 million’ report that Australia needs 653,000 additional tech workers by 2030 to help fuel the economy and improve overall living standards.

Tech Council of Australia’s CEO, Kate Pounder believes the partnership will benefit the tech industry: “The Tech Council of Australia welcomes this exciting new partnership that will ensure more students gain crucial skills that will allow them better access to great Australian tech jobs."

Ms Pounder added: “This partnership is a great example of the power of collaboration and how organisations can work together to improve and create new pathways to attract more students to consider and take up a career in tech.”