The Victorian Coalition Government opened nominations for the prestigious Victorian International Education Awards 2014, announcing new award categories and expanded eligibility.
The annual awards, which were initiated by the Coalition Government in 2013, support Victoria’s single most valuable export sector by recognising innovative international education institutions, companies and service providers as well as the exceptional accomplishments of individual students. Winners of the student awards will be awarded a scholarship of $10,000 to contribute to their study in Victoria.
Last year, Jenny Batnag from the Philippines won the International Student of the Year – Vocational Education and Training (VET) award. Jenny is studying a Diploma of Nursing at Sunraysia Institute of TAFE and is a leader and advocate for international student welfare in Mildura and bridging the gap between local and international students. Jenny participates in community immersion activities such as farmers markets and local festivals, which she promotes to fellow international students.
Minister for Employment and Trade Louise Asher said the awards provide a valuable opportunity to profile Victoria’s competitive position internationally by recognising industry best practice and the strength of the state’s research and industry partnerships.
“The Victorian International Education Awards are a Victorian Government initiative to support leaders in Victoria’s international education sector and spotlight those delivering and benefiting from our world class education,” Ms Asher said.
“I welcome submissions for this year’s Victorian International Education Awards and encourage companies and service providers to apply alongside our exemplary international students and institutions.”
Nominations for the awards will be open until 9 July 2014 with the winners to be announced at an awards ceremony on 11 September 2014.
Ms Asher said the Napthine Government was committed to supporting Victoria’s international education sector and international students’ invaluable contribution to the community.
“Victoria attracts more than 140,000 international student enrolments each year, injecting $4.49 billion into the Victorian economy and helping to create more than 30,000 jobs.
“The significant social, cultural and economic benefits the state receives from the international education sector reinforce the importance of every international student having the best possible experience during their time in the state.
“We want the international students studying in Victoria to return home as ambassadors and friends of Victoria,” Ms Asher said
Victoria’s 10 world-leading universities position it as a leading provider of international education in the Asia-Pacific region, with internationally recognised research institutions and infrastructure.
Award categories for 2014 are:
Victorian International Education Provider Awards
Excellence in International Education – University
Excellence in International Education – TAFE
Excellence in International Education – Private Education & Training
Excellence in International Education – English Language College
Excellence in International Student Employability and Career Development
Excellence in International Student Experience
Excellence in Innovation in Research Partnerships
Excellence in Innovation in Industry Partnerships
Victorian International Student Awards
International Student of the Year – English Language Training
International Student of the Year – Vocational Education and Training (VET)
International Student of the Year – Higher Education
International Student of the Year – Research
Premier’s Award categories
Premier’s Award – International Education Provider of the Year
Premier’s Award – International Student of the Year
More information about the Victorian International Education Awards can be found at http://awards.studymelbourne.vic.gov.au
