PM Backs SIT Global Growth Plan

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has shown his support for the Southern Institute of Technology’s plans to rebuild its international student numbers during a recent visit to Invercargill.

The Prime Minister met SIT chief executive Bharat Guha and members of the institute’s international team at a National Party dinner held at the Langlands Hotel on 12 February. The event brought together local business and community leaders, providing an opportunity for discussion about education and regional growth.

Among those attending were newly appointed International Manager Riza Ambadar and International Marketing Manager Michelle Zhao. The meeting comes at a crucial time for SIT as it works to restore its international enrolments to pre-pandemic levels.

Mr Ambadar said it was encouraging to speak directly with the Prime Minister and hear his views on the value of international education. “[The Prime Minister] understands the economy benefits from international students and he sees the importance of SIT’s autonomy being returned; he commended Penny (Simmonds) on her ability to make that happen.”

Before Covid-19 in 2019, SIT enrolled nearly 1,700 international students across its campuses. Since regaining its autonomy from the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology on 1 January 2026, the institute has been able to return to local decision-making regarding its international programmes and student numbers.

SIT’s current strategy focuses on strengthening its presence in Asia, South Asia, China, Korea and Japan. The institute has set a target of enrolling 400 additional international students by the end of 2026, a move expected to provide economic and cultural benefits to both the campus and the wider Southland region.

Minister for Vocational Education and Invercargill MP Penny Simmonds, who hosted and attended the networking event, also highlighted the importance of global connections for vocational training providers. She said, “International students bring diversity and benefit to our vocational institutions like SIT.”

She added, “Attracting international students to SIT is critical to help prepare local students for a global workplace and to ensure that the Southland community and industries have access to sufficient skilled graduates. I commend SIT for their vision to increase their international student numbers.”

Mr Ambadar said the backing of national leaders gives the institute added confidence as it expands its reach overseas. “With the Prime Minister and Minister Simmonds support of SIT’s autonomy, we have confidence in moving forward to promote SIT in the international market.”