27% hike in Lankan students seeking Australian Education

Students mig rating to Au s t r a l i a for their Education increased by 27% from 2016. Minister of Skills Development & Vocational Training, Chandima Weerakkody addressing the Australia Future Unlimited Education Seminar, said that, as Sri Lanka and Australia share very close diplomatic and cultural ties, the Australian Education system and Culture has made a huge impact on Sri Lankans.

The event, organized for the 7th consecutive year on Sept.8, as an initiative by Austrade, combined 16 Australian Education institutions through which Sri Lankan students were able to network with Australian universities and discuss its academic programme, facilities, student experiences and graduate outcome.

The Minister requested the 16 Universities to tie up with Sri Lankan Universities, so that, local undergraduates can initiate their preliminary levels in Sri Lanka and then attend an Australian university to complete the finals.

Minister stressed that Australia should promote courses such as Plumbing and Carpentry which, due to social stigma, has been sidelined by society. Australian High Commissioner Bryce Hutchesson said that Education offered in Australia is way beyond white collar disciplines, and hence, there is something for everyone. And the Education partnership between the two countries has been the central part of their relationship.

“Over the years, 30,000 Sri Lankans have acquired Australian Education qualifications, and it is the No.1 destination for Sri Lankan undergradu- ates”, he said. According to him, early this year, 7,500 Sri Lankans are studying in Australia and the numbers are rising. He added that 2018 could have a 28% growth, if the numbers keep increasing.

The event is aimed at highlighting the quality and expertise of the Australian Education & Training Sector to prospective students, parents and institutions in Sri Lanka, with focus on interacting with students from Gateway College and the British School.

Australian Trade & Investment Commissioner Peter Colman and representatives of the Australian Education institutions were among those present.