Export Education Looks to the Future

Export Education Looks to the Future

Education New Zealand: Media Release 09/08/11

In a year of changes for international education in New Zealand, industry members are gathering in Auckland for the 20th annual New Zealand International Education Conference.

“It is tempting when you have an occasion such as a 20th anniversary, to look back at the industry’s accomplishments and growth over that time,” says Kathy Phillips, Acting Chief Executive of Education New Zealand. “However, this is an industry that always looks ahead to see what’s around the corner, and with so much change happening it’s more important than ever to look to the future. That’s why we’ve titled our conference this year: Unlocking New Opportunities Through Innovation.”

Hon Steven Joyce, Minister for Tertiary Education, will give a keynote address to the delegates. The Minister is behind the creation of a new Crown Agency which will promote New Zealand overseas as an educational destination, and oversee our international relationships in education. The agency is set to launch in September.

Immigration New Zealand has also introduced policy changes recently which affect international students coming to New Zealand. Nigel Bickle, the Deputy Chief Executive of INZ will be addressing the industry regarding their vision for the future.

“The New Zealand government is now engaging with education exporters at a level we’ve never seen before,” says Kathy Phillips. “This industry brings around $2.5 billion in foreign exchange into New Zealand each year, so it’s a major contributor to our economy and one the government would like to see continuing to grow. Their participation in this conference at such a high level is a reflection of the importance of international education to New Zealand.”

The future of New Zealand’s education exports also depend on a swift recovery from the earthquakes in Christchurch. Canterbury has traditionally been the second most popular destination in New Zealand for international students.

“Both Canterbury and the rest of New Zealand have a lot to offer international students. The key is to let overseas students know that we’re ready to welcome them and provide a safe, high quality experience. We’re looking forward to hearing from Peter Townsend, the Chief Executive of the Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce, about his strategy for getting back to business in Christchurch and Canterbury.”

The two day conference is the largest annual gathering of export education professionals in the country.

ENDS

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