As experts suggest in recent years, there has been a significant surge in students seeking educational opportunities beyond their home countries. This trend is propelled by several factors, including the pursuit of high-quality education, exposure to diverse cultures and the desire to enhance global perspectives. As borders become more permeable, institutions worldwide are actively engaging in partnerships and collaborations to attract a diverse student body. The rise of international education not only contributes to the academic growth of individuals but also fosters cross-cultural understanding and collaboration, playing a pivotal role in shaping a more interconnected and harmonious global community.
In a conversation with FE Education Jugnu Roy, Director of Engagement, East Asia and India at Education New Zealand, spoke on the organisation’s strategic priorities and initiatives which aim to shape the landscape of New Zealand’s education sector. (Edited Excerpts)
What are the strategic areas in education that New Zealand is currently focusing on?
Education New Zealand plays a pivotal role in representing the entire spectrum of New Zealand’s education sector, encompassing eight universities, vocational institutions, private training establishments and edtech companies. Our mission involves creating a robust brand for New Zealand education and fostering student mobility in both directions. We have rolled out several initiatives such as the Prime Minister Scholarship for Asia programme facilitate group projects, where students from New Zealand studying various disciplines come to India for a transformative six-week programme. Could you elaborate New Zealand Center at IIT Delhi’s role and how it contributes to academic research and collaborations?
The New Zealand Center at IIT Delhi serves as a nexus for academic research, fellowships and joint exchange programmes. We’ve already seen success with funding joint research projects between academics from IIT Delhi and New Zealand universities. The recently announced fellowship programmes will see academics from both sides spending time at each other’s institutions. This dynamic fosters innovation, especially in areas aligned with sustainable development goals, strengthening the bond between the academic communities.
hat initiatives does Education New Zealand undertake to make education more affordable and accessible for international students?
Education New Zealand is committed to supporting international students in various ways. Beyond the scholarship offerings based on academic merit, the overall cost of programmes in New Zealand is often more reasonable compared to other international destinations. We are exploring articulation agreements with Indian institutions, a pathway that allows students to start their degrees in India and complete them in New Zealand. Initiatives such as the three-year stay-back option for master’s students add significant value, making New Zealand an attractive and financially feasible option for international education./
What sets New Zealand apart, particularly in terms of safety and the overall well-being of international students, when it comes to selecting it as a destiny to study abroad
New Zealand stands out as a destination for several reasons. All our universities are government-funded and consistently rank in the top echelons globally. Safety is a paramount consideration, with New Zealand consistently ranked among the safest countries. The unique Code of Pastoral Care for International Students, adhered to by all institutions, ensures accurate and transparent information, giving students confidence in their choices. Moreover, New Zealand is recognised for not only providing top-notch education but also prioritising the holistic well-being of international students.New Zealand presents a compelling case for international students. All universities are government-funded, ensuring a consistently high standard of education. The emphasis on safety, reinforced by the country’s rankings as one of the safest globally, provides a secure environment for students. Initiatives like the Code of Pastoral Care guarantee that students receive accurate information and are supported throughout their academic journey. Additionally, New Zealand is acknowledged as a top English-speaking country for preparing students for the future and enhancing their employability. Unique benefits, such as domestic fee rates for PhD programmes and globally recognised degrees, further distinguish New Zealand as an excellent choice for international education.