Through a new initiative between Charles Sturt University (CSU) and higher education partners, TAFE graduates have secured scholarships to help them begin study at CSU. Ms Gemma Paul from TAFE NSW Riverina Institute in Wagga Wagga commenced a degree in accounting after completing an Advanced Diploma in Accountancy at Riverina Institute. “Receiving the scholarship is a huge relief as my course requires many books that are quite expensive. University will be an exciting experience for me and this scholarship will keep me motivated and focused,” she said. Ms Paul is one of 10 former TAFE students to win scholarships in 2010 provided by the University through the CSU University Pathways Scholarship, which in partnership with Riverina Institute, Canberra Institute of Technology and TAFE Western.  Riverina Institute’s acting Institute Director, Mr Graeme Stutchbery said, “We are thrilled to be able to offer our students such a brilliant learning pathway.  This partnership is about ensuring students from throughout the Riverina have access to further study and a career of their choice.” CSU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Ross Chambers said the program is part of the University’s ongoing commitment to create strong education pathways and collaboration from TAFE to University in its regions.