03.03.2022International Students, we have learnt to miss you!
In April 2020, when Committee for Melbourne formed the International Student Advocacy Network (ISAN) as part of our Road to Recovery campaign, there were indeed dark days ahead for our international education agenda.
Nearly two years later as we celebrate the opening of Australia’s international borders, there is a renewed sense of optimism and a heightened awareness of the importance of international students to our community, economy and culture.
One of the objectives of ISAN was to educate the community on the importance of Victoria’s international education sector. ISAN sought to highlight the contribution international students make to our community, and encourage a safe, welcoming environment.
Last week ISAN worked with Committee member The Age, through journalist Chip Le Grand, on an excellent article exploring the importance of international students to Greater Melbourne.
The Committee worked with Chip to arrange interviews with:
- Sally Capp | Lord Mayor | City of Melbourne
- Michael Wesley | Deputy Vice Chancellor | The University of Melbourne (and Chair of our ISAN taskforce)
- Adam Shoemaker | Vice Chancellor | Victoria University
- Professor Sherman Young | Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education and VP | RMIT University
- Peter King | CEO | Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Delaware North | Contractor to Committee members Melbourne & Olympic Parks Trust and Royal Botanic Gardens
This article presents a fascinating insight into the hidden value of international students beyond the $13.7 billion annual revenue for Victoria we hope to return to.
As our aviation capacity continues to grow and our international students return, let’s make them feel welcome!
Read The Age article
Read about the inaugural Melbourne International Student Week
Save the date for our upcoming aviation forum, Blue Skies Ahead, to be held in the Committee’s E-ROOM on Tuesday, 29 March