ILT Scholarships Support International Student Success
ILT management were hosted at SIT’s International House last week for a thank-you afternoon tea, meeting scholarship recipients of the ILT Academy Zero Fees English Scholarship, which was established last year to encourage international English language students to study at SIT. Photo: suppled
ILT’s scholarship programme supports international students in studying English at SIT in Invercargill.
The initiative aims to boost student retention and economic benefits in the Southland region.
Scholarship recipients have gained confidence and plan to continue further study at SIT.
Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) recently hosted a celebratory afternoon tea at International House to acknowledge the support of the Invercargill Licensing Trust (ILT) in providing scholarships for international students. The ILT Academy Zero Fees English Scholarship was established to encourage the return of international students following a significant drop in enrolments due to the pandemic.
ILT representatives, including President Paddy O'Brien and Chief Executive Chris Ramsay, were among the guests, along with Minister for Vocational Education Hon Penny Simmonds. They were welcomed by SIT’s leadership team and had the opportunity to meet eight scholarship recipients studying the New Zealand Certificate in English Language (NZCEL) at Levels 3 and 4.
The NZCEL scholarships, first introduced in 2024, aim to re-engage international students, who previously had a strong retention rate in Invercargill. Before 2020, more than 75% of English language students continued to higher-level study at SIT. The scholarship programme has already supported 24 students from countries including Thailand, Korea, Japan, Indonesia, China, and Vietnam.
Dr Teri McClelland, SIT’s International Manager, highlighted the economic benefits of international students, citing a 2022 BERL report that estimated their annual spending at $12,400 each. The report also noted that their presence supports approximately 78 full-time jobs in the Southland region.
ILT Chief Executive Chris Ramsay emphasised the importance of the scholarship, stating that the Board saw it as a valuable investment in both SIT and the wider community. “ILT are really pleased and proud to be able to continue the strong relationship that we have had with SIT for a number of decades. Our vision is for a vibrant Invercargill, and the provision of this funding is totally in line with our vision.”
The scholarship programme has not only helped international students but also benefited Southland’s refugee community, who have been able to improve their English skills and integrate into further education or employment. Dr McClelland described the scholarship as “very successful” in supporting both international and local students. “It’s great to see both our international and local communities benefitting from it.”
Scholarship recipients have shared positive experiences. May (Jinsook Kim) from South Korea said the programme has boosted her confidence in speaking English. “Earlier I had no confidence in speaking English... it has become easier for me.” With a background in architecture, she hopes to continue her studies at SIT and work as an architect in New Zealand.
Similarly, Xiaocong Wu from China, who has been studying at SIT for five months, praised his teachers and the welcoming environment of Invercargill. “It’s quiet and the people are very kind. I like this environment.” He plans to continue his education in Quantity Surveying, progressing to diploma and Level 7 courses. “It will be very useful for my future work,” he said.
The ILT scholarships continue to make a significant impact, providing opportunities for international students to advance their education and contribute to the local community.
