Students meet Minister

International students share their Victorian experiences with new Minister

The Victorian Education Minister has recognised the significant contribution that international students make to Victoria’s education system.

The Minister met with 13 students from China, Vietnam, Singapore and Germany who have studied in Victorian schools including students who are continuing their further education at Victorian universities.

The Minister thanked the students for choosing to study in a Victorian school and hoped that they had found Victoria a great place to live and study and that students had the opportunity to experience many of Victoria’s attractions such as the football, cricket and tennis, and to make many friendships along the way. 

"By studying here, it’s true that you benefit from being part of a great education system, but at the same time the system has much to gain from you," the Minister said. International students’ contribution to Victorian schools and the Victorian community is of great value in developing an understanding of other cultures. This is important in an increasingly globalised world where students are prepared for active participation as global citizens.

The Victorian Government is keen for Victoria to be the first choice destination for International Students. The Minister said that the Government was undertaking a range of activities to promote Victoria as a destination of choice for international school students as well as strengthening Victoria’s competitiveness as a high-quality provider of education services. The meeting provided an opportunity for the Minister to learn about student study experiences, and also to listen to ideas so that we can continue to provide a high quality education experience and a safe and welcoming environment in our schools.