14 September 2023 at 10:00 am
Thai interest in New Zealand as an offshore study destination is growing
Record crowds were seen at the recent New Zealand Education Fair, organised by Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao, in Bangkok, Thailand.
The annual Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) Bangkok Fair took place on Saturday 26 August with 1,630 attendees visiting throughout the course of the day, a record number for the Fair.
Those who attended had the opportunity to talk to more than 50 education providers that were representing Aotearoa New Zealand education across the school, vocational, English language, and university sectors.
Ben McNally Burn, ENZ’s International Market Manager for Southeast Asia & India added that it was fantastic to see Thai interest in considering Aotearoa New Zealand as an offshore study destination growing.
“Having record numbers attend our Bangkok Fair this year demonstrates how important and reputable these fairs have become for prospective parents and students wanting to access reliable information directly from New Zealand education institutions.
“For our education partners, these events are so important for maintaining in-market credibility and reputation and we cannot underestimate the importance of keeping New Zealand front of mind. Especially in amongst accelerated competitor activities in Thailand including seminars and fairs hosted by Education USA, the Canadian Embassy, Austrade, and the British Council”, said Ben.
Ms. Kirsty Bundell, Assistant Director of Mathematics and Statistics at Avondale High School conducted five simulated classrooms to showcase hands-on New Zealand teaching and learning styles. Featured here is a class on Geometry - ‘SURFACE AREA OF 3D SHAPES’.
Feedback from the sector representatives was overwhelmingly positive, noting that not only was there a fantastic turn out of attendees but that prospective students had clearly researched Aotearoa New Zealand and its educational offerings prior to coming, which led to engaging discussions.
Anne Henwood, Director of International Students at Rosehill College in Auckland said that she was thrilled by the exceptional experience at the 2023 Bangkok Fair.
“The events proved to be an invaluable opportunity for New Zealand schools, fostering connections and opening doors to agents, parents and students seeking quality education. The events brilliantly showcased the diverse educational opportunities for Thai students in New Zealand.”
Garry Chronican, Director Pathway, University of Otago | Te Whare Wānanga o Otāgo also said that it was a pleasure to attend such a well-run and valuable event.
“The standard of advertising, communication, organisation and overall experience was outstanding. The events were well supported by education agencies – a testament to the excellent relationship ENZ staff have with local stakeholders”.
“Why study in New Zealand” special seminar held by key opinion leaders Choak and Suquan Bulakul. Their son is currently studying in New Zealand.
ENZ also delivered an agent seminar in Bangkok on 25 August, just prior to the Education Fair. The Bangkok Agent Seminar offered an opportunity for NZ institutions to reconnect with high performing Thai education agents. This event included market updates, networking opportunities, along with 1-to-1 meetings throughout the day.
Following the ENZ agent seminars and fair, the ENZ team partnered with local schools and agents to take part in three separate mini fairs and school roadshows across Thailand including in Chiang Mai, Phuket and Chonburi.
Any institutions looking to be involved in other ENZ organised fairs and events in the future in any of our markets, can do so by visiting ENZ’s events page here.
