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Importance of international students recognised

By City of Latrobe - 22nd March 2005 - Back to News

The importance of international education to Latrobe City was acknowledged last Wednesday during International Education Week, when Latrobe City Council hosted international students who are enrolled in local secondary and tertiary studies.

Supported by the Victorian Education Department and all education providers, International Education Week recognised what is now an increasing trend in Victoria’s and Australia’s education system. That is, an international awareness of the quality of schools and universities to deliver a rewarding and relevant education for students from overseas.

Latrobe City Mayor, Cr Bruce Lougheed, welcomed visiting students from a number of countries including China, Fiji, Japan and Malaysia at a gathering at Century Inn; saying it was an honour to welcome the students from so many different lands.

"These students are taking full benefit of our educational facilities and expertise at all levels of learning – primary, post-primary, tertiary as well as in the occupational training area," Cr Lougheed explained.

"While the academic aspects of the students’ learning and obtaining a qualification are essential, it is also important to recognise that through these international education opportunities, the learning and understanding of another culture is taking place.

"In Latrobe City we have international students living in our local community and sharing our lifestyles. These students are learning not only their particular area of study but also about us here in Latrobe City.

However, this learning experience is reciprocal. There is plenty that we can learn from our visiting international students, just as there is no doubt plenty they can learn from us," Cr Lougheed said.

Cr Lougheed said that hosting students from overseas also represented another aspect of the internationalisation of our municipality. "Victoria’s regional and rural areas are now under focus as ideal areas in which to study and live, and Latrobe City presents an excellent, safe and viable option for international students that is increasingly being recognised, especially by the students themselves," Cr Lougheed said.

Cr Lougheed said International Education Week had also provided a great opportunity to formally thank the host families who have provided a safe and caring environment for many international secondary college students.

"Guidance, support and a welcoming environment for young people from overseas is vital for those temporarily separated from their families," Cr Lougheed concluded.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com