Asian business students in NZ keen to keep links 

Source: ONE News

New Zealand's business community is being urged to recognise the unique capabilities of Asian business students in New Zealand.

Non-profit organisation Asia:NZ says students who have chosen to study in New Zeland have unique skills, understandings and connections in the Asia region.

The comment comes after the publication of the organisation's study of Asian-born business graduates who trained in New Zealand.

The survey showed most students enjoyed studying in New Zealand and some are keen to pursue business ventures between the two regions.

Seventy-one percent of students said they enjoyed their study experience in New Zealand and over half said the study matched their expectations.

However, the survey found that students had difficulties building relationships with locals. Those who had built up good relationships commented that developing trust took time.

Tuition fees were also perceived to be too high, with 60% saying they were unhappy with the cost of study. This is despite affordability being one of the reasons why students chose New Zealand as a study destination.

The report says graduates had a strong interest in maintaining links with New Zealand and with those they had met during their study.

Some specifically said they would like to pursue co-operative New Zealand-Asia business ventures.

The report made recommendations for various stakeholders, such as suggesting the education sector make stronger connections with prospective students' families given the important role parents play in influencing the choice of destination for study.