New Zealand (Commonwealth Union)_ In an exciting development for aspiring Indian students, Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao and Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST) have launched a groundbreaking scholarship program. This initiative offers over NZ$200,000 in scholarships specifically aimed at Indian students enrolling in their first year of full-time programs in New Zealand for the academic year 2025. The scholarship program, named the New Zealand Science and Technology Scholarships, was officially announced during a recent event at the New Zealand High Commission in New Delhi. This initiative aligns with New Zealand’s National Education Policy (NEP), reinforcing the country’s commitment to fostering international educational partnerships.
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Eligible students can apply for admission to New Zealand’s renowned educational institutions, which are known for delivering career-focused applied learning. These institutes are deeply connected to industries and local communities, providing students with invaluable real-world learning experiences. The scholarship program encompasses a diverse range of eligible fields, including agri-technology, applied health sciences, aquaculture, architecture, biotechnology, construction, computing systems, digital technology, engineering in various specializations, food technology, information technology, marine conservation, nursing, quantity surveying, veterinary nursing, and viticulture.
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To qualify for the NZIST Scholarships, applicants must meet several criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
- Possess current citizenship of India.
- Be residing in India when applying.
- Be eligible for acceptance into a full-time science and technology course and remain enrolled throughout the 2025-2026 academic cycle.
- Receive an unconditional offer from a participating NZIST Business Division for the selected course in 2025.
- Meet all New Zealand immigration requirements for obtaining a student visa.
Notably, there is no separate application process for the scholarship. Twenty eligible students will be awarded scholarships based on their application for study at any participating university or college submitted by October 25, 2024. Furthermore, Ziena Jalil, Chief of Staff at Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, highlighted the pressing need for skilled individuals in science and technology, fields that are increasingly vital in today’s world. Jalil stated that the New Zealand Science and Technology Scholarships represent its commitment to supporting Indian students in accessing globally recognized qualifications that are underpinned by industry best practices in fields with high talent demand. This initiative not only provides significant financial support but also aims to enrich the educational experiences of Indian students in New Zealand, paving the way for future leaders in science and technology.
Indian students currently constitute the largest group of international students at NZIST, contributing significantly to the rich cultural tapestry across more than 80 campus premises throughout New Zealand. Jalil also noted that vibrant Diwali celebrations can be witnessed on campuses every year, showcasing the cultural diversity brought by these students. Furthermore, as the application window for the NZIST Scholarships is now open, interested candidates are encouraged to explore further details regarding eligibility criteria, available programs, and participating institutes. For comprehensive information, aspiring students can visit tepukenga.ac.nz/scholarship/.
