International students back on campus

The largest intake of international students since COVID-19 impacted travel has been welcomed to the WITT Te Pūkenga campus this week with a powhiri and two-week induction. In total 48 new students from India, Nepal, Korea, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will be calling Taranaki home as they embark on diplomas through to bachelor degrees and postgraduate studies in nursing, business, trades and engineering.

“It’s wonderful to have international students back on campus, their presence really adds to the whole learning vibe,” says WITT Te Pūkenga Student Liaison and Pastoral Care Officer Robyn Harvey.

A two-week induction is underway to help bring the students together, learn about the services and learning environments on offer and feel comfortable on campus and in the wider Taranaki community as they embark on their new studies.

“From experience we know happy, relaxed students who have had a chance to make friends and get to know their new environment are more ready to learn and get the most out of their time at WITT and in New Zealand,” says Robyn.

The induction includes everything from learning how to use the library and access learning support through to time off campus exploring Taranaki Maunga, our walkways and the city.

The induction is well supported by the community, with speakers from the New Zealand Police and large local employers sharing their expertise.

“While we try and share as much as we can to make their time in Taranaki a success the students bring a lot with them and teach us a lot in return.”