From the Chief Executive: Opening doors and creating opportunities

One of the best parts of this job is getting out into our markets, seeing international education in action, and helping take New Zealand education to the world. 

Over the past few weeks, I have been in China with Minister Simmonds and leaders from the institutes of technology and polytechnics (ITP) sector, met with education providers here in New Zealand, spoken with ENZ teams around the world, and hosted visitors from markets that are increasingly important to our future.  

The message is remarkably consistent. Demand for New Zealand education is growing, and there is genuine interest in what we offer as a country. 

The China mission was a great example. Across Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, we met government representatives, partners, institutions and agents, all focused on strengthening education connections and creating new opportunities for New Zealand providers. For our ITP sector in particular, it was an important opportunity to build momentum in a market that remains critical for future growth. 

Just as importantly, ENZ’s latest Sector Survey reinforced something I have been hearing directly from providers. They value ENZ’s international presence, market expertise and connections, and they want us focused on the things we are uniquely placed to do – opening doors, creating connections and helping the sector identify opportunities in key markets. You can read more about it in this edition of E-News. 

That’s exactly where we are focused. Over this week and next, we are back in key markets including Viet Nam and Thailand, supporting agent engagement, strengthening partnerships and showcasing New Zealand education to future students and their families. Every conversation, every event and every connection helps build awareness of New Zealand and creates opportunities to grow student enrolments.  

International education is one of New Zealand’s great growth opportunities. We are seeing positive momentum, but there’s more to do. Together, with providers, education agents and partners, we are focused on turning that momentum into sustained growth as we help deliver the Government’s ambition of doubling the value of international education for New Zealand. 

Thanks for being part of the journey. 

Ko te pae tawhiti, whāia kia tata; ko te pae tata, whakamaua kia tina 

Bring the distant horizon close, and hold fast to what you have achieved. 

Ngā mihi nui, 

David Downs