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When Adip Rijal’s life was tragically cut short at just 24 years of age, his parents made a powerful decision - to transform their loss into opportunity for others.
Today, the CQUniCares Adip Rijal Memorial Scholarship stands as a lasting tribute to Adip’s generosity, ambition and belief in education as a pathway to a better future.
CQUniversity is inviting applications for the 2026 Scholarship, an initiative that continues to honour the life, values and global outlook of the late Adip while providing life-changing support to international students experiencing financial hardship.
Since its inception, four scholarships - each valued at $5,000 for one year of support - have been awarded to international students studying in Queensland.
The inaugural scholarship was awarded in 2022 to a Nepalese student living in Bundaberg, who completed her Bachelor of Nursing later that year.
The most recent recipient, Jasmin, an international student from India residing in South East Queensland, was awarded the scholarship in 2025 and graduated with a Bachelor of Business later that year.
“Receiving this scholarship means more than just financial assistance - it is a source of encouragement and motivation,” Jasmin said.
“It allows me to focus more on my studies and professional development without the added stress of financial constraints. I am inspired to work even harder to honour the memory of Adip Rijal and the values this scholarship represents.”
Adip was born in Nepal in 1994 and migrated to Australia with his parents at the age of eight.
He completed his secondary schooling in Rockhampton before commencing a Bachelor of Engineering (Co-op) and Diploma of Professional Practice at CQUniversity.
He later graduated in Civil Engineering in 2016 and went on to work with major engineering and construction organisations, including John Holland, AECOM, BMD, Bouygues Construction and Downer.
Tragically, Adip passed away in February 2019 while travelling overseas.
Adip’s mother, Dr Deepa Rijal - a CQUniversity alumna and staff member - said the scholarship was established to support students facing financial hardship, while keeping Adip’s memory and values alive.
“The scholarship reflects Adip’s kindness, ambition and belief in education as a pathway to opportunity,” Dr Rijal said.
Applications for the 2026 CQUniCares Adip Rijal Memorial Scholarship are now open, and will close on Tuesday, 27 January.
To be eligible, applicants must:
CQUniversity acknowledges Traditional Owners and Custodians and pays respect to the Elders of all First Nations peoples of Australia.CQUniversity Australia is a trading name of Central Queensland University
ABN: 39 181 103 288
RTO Code: 40939
CRICOS: 00219C
TEQSA: PRV12073
