PCF Secures PMSA Funding to Deliver 9-Week Pacific Internship in Thailand
Expressions of Interest Now Open for 2025 - 26 Cohort
We would like to announce that we have secured funding from Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao, through the Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia (PMSA), to deliver a fully funded 9-week international internship programme in Thailand, tailored for emerging Pacific leaders.
Running from November 2025 to February 2026, this immersive opportunity will see a cohort of Pacific interns embark on a transformative journey of work-integrated learning, cultural exchange, and global citizenship throughout Thailand.
“This programme is about empowering Pacific people to step into new spaces with confidence — to grow professionally, deepen cultural understanding, and contribute to Aotearoa’s identity as a connected and inclusive Pacific nation of global citizens.”
— Joanna Bourke, Chief Executive,
Strengthening Pacific-Asia Connections
Delivered in partnership with Pagoda Projects and the prestigious Princess Chulabhorn Science High School network in Thailand, this initiative builds enduring relationships across the Asia-Pacific region.
Through placements in secondary schools renowned for their STEM excellence and international engagement, interns will:
Support Thai educators in classroom settings
Share Pacific cultures, languages, and worldviews
Foster mutual understanding and lifelong global connections
This is the second year PCF has partnered with Pagoda Projects, demonstrating the strength of collaboration and our shared commitment to equipping Pacific peoples for global success.
Why This Matters
This internship aligns with PCF’s strategic pillars:
Strengthen Identity – by uplifting Pacific voices, cultures, and confidence abroad
Deepen Relationships – through meaningful Asia-Pacific connections
Amplify Voices – by preparing Pacific people to lead as global citizens in Aotearoa and beyond
It also contributes to New Zealand’s broader goal of nurturing future leaders who can navigate, influence, and thrive in diverse international environments.
Expressions of Interest Now Open
We’re calling on Pacific young people aged 18–35, based in New Zealand to step forward. If you’re passionate about youth, education, service, and cultural exchange — and ready to grow as a Pacific global citizen — this opportunity is for you.
🔍 Programme Snapshot:
🗓 Dates: November 2025 – Early February 2026
📍 Location: Thailand
🧑🏽🏫 Sector: Education & Youth Development
👥 Eligibility: Pacific heritage, NZ citizen or permanent resident, aged 18–35
✈️ Fully Funded: Flights, accommodation, insurance, cultural activities, and pastoral support included
Be Part of Something Bigger
This programme is about more than travel. It’s about contributing to Aotearoa’s story in the world — as a nation grounded in Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa, connected to Asia, and confident in our people’s ability to lead with heart and purpose.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao, Pagoda Projects, and the Princess Chulabhorn Schools for enabling this Pacific-led vision to come to life.
📩 Expressions of Interest are now open
👉 https://www.pcf.org.nz/prime-ministers-scholarships
📅 Deadline: Sunday 31st August 2025
📞 Contact: info@pcf.org.nz