​    To broaden students' international perspectives and deepen their understanding of world-class education systems in actuarial science and finance, the Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics (JUFE) Key Laboratory of Financial Data Science and the Institute of National Conditions Research invited Associate Professor Gaurav Khemka from the Research School of Finance, Actuarial Studies and Statistics (RSFAS) at the Australian National University (ANU) to deliver a special academic lecture. The lecture, titled The Australian Postgraduate Education System in Actuarial Science and Financial Statistics, was held on March 19 in Seminar Room 427 of the Financial Data Building on the North Jiaqiao Campus. The event was chaired by Associate Dean Feng Lingbing of the Institute of National Conditions Research.

   At the beginning of the lecture, Associate Dean Feng Lingbing extended a warm welcome to Professor Khemka. He introduced Professor Khemka not only as the Higher Degree Research Convenor at ANU but also as a renowned international academic expert, highlighting a fifteen-year collaborative history between the two institutions. This visit aimed to build a direct communication platform for JUFE students to access top-tier international educational resources.

     In his opening remarks, Professor Khemka first introduced the academic stature of the Australian National University. He noted that ANU is a world-leading research-intensive university, with the core disciplines of the RSFAS covering finance, actuarial studies, and statistics. Regarding postgraduate (Master's) education, he detailed the distinctive features and positioning of ANU's programs in these three fields. The finance Master's programs are well-structured with clear hierarchies, featuring a core flagship program that maintains rigorous academic standards and offers a direct pathway to a PhD, ensuring high-quality talent cultivation. The statistics Master's programs balance academic research and practical application, catering to students aiming for either further academic pursuit or professional employment. Actuarial studies, a strength of ANU, holds accreditation from international authoritative actuarial associations. Its curriculum is highly aligned with international professional qualifications, equipping graduates with strong global competitiveness in fields like risk management, insurance, and investment.

    Concerning PhD education, Professor Khemka introduced ANU's highly competitive doctoral training system and selection criteria. He stated that the school's PhD programs aim for international top-tier standards, with limited enrollment slots and intense competition. The selection process focuses on applicants' academic potential, research foundation, and innovative capabilities, placing particular emphasis on English research output and standardized academic training. A well-articulated research proposal that aligns closely with the disciplinary direction and the supervisor's research field is key to a successful application. Furthermore, ANU offers generous scholarship support for outstanding PhD candidates and collaborates with institutions like the China Scholarship Council (CSC) to provide multiple funding channels for students pursuing overseas doctoral studies.

    The event featured a lively Q&A session. Professor Khemka patiently addressed students' questions regarding the duration of PhD programs, research training arrangements, and career development paths. He encouraged students to solidify their academic foundations, enhance comprehensive competencies, and particularly focus on developing independent thinking and on-the-spot problem-solving skills to prepare for the international academic stage.

In concluding the lecture, Associate Dean Feng Lingbing delivered a summary. He remarked that the lecture presented cutting-edge content and rich information, systematically showcasing the educational philosophy and international standards of top Australian universities in actuarial science and financial statistics. It provided significant reference for JUFE students in planning their academic and overseas study paths. He encouraged the attending students to cultivate a global vision, adhere to their academic aspirations, and continuously improve their comprehensive abilities to advance toward higher academic goals. 

                                           （By Pang Qiyue, Bao Daobin，Pang Qiyue，Tan Yuhua, Zhang Hua, Guo Lu）