Queensland rewards excellence in International Education and Training

A large number of Queensland education and training providers were awarded for their leading roles in the international education sector last night.

Parliamentary Secretary for Trade Michael Choi said that last night's Queensland Education and Training International Awards for Excellence were held to recognise the State's top achievers in the international education and training sector, with just 16 outstanding recipients recognised.

"Accolades were presented across the four education sectors of higher education, vocational education and training, English language courses, and schools, to students and organisations across Queensland," Mr Choi said.

"The Queensland Education and Training International Awards for Excellence are part of a Queensland Government program to recognise the State's international education and training institutions, students and educators for their contribution to building and sustaining the State's international education industry.

"These State-based Awards , which are four years old, are unique in Australia. They recognise, celebrate and showcase local institutions and individuals that demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the international student experience.

"In 2008 more than 84,000 international students from over 160 countries chose Queensland as their study destination. These students support over 17,000 full-time equivalent jobs in our State.

"It's important to acknowledge the achievements and contributions of this vital export industry to Queensland's economy, and also to the cultural fabric of our State. By highlighting examples of best practice, we will continue to build Queensland's reputation as a quality provider of international education and training services."

The 2009 Winners of the Queensland Education and Training International Awards for Excellence are:

International Student of the Year 2009 - Higher Education

Mr Camilo Santiago Costa Leite
Griffith University

International Student of the Year 2009 - Vocational Education and Training

Ms Rajinder Kaur Multani
Brisbane North Institute of TAFE

International Student of the Year 2009 - Schools

Ms Nam-Phuong Nguyen
John Paul College

International Student of the Year 2009 - English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students

Mr Wai Choi Wong
Southbank Institute of Technology

Outstanding Professional Contribution 2009

Ms Kay Ganley

Queensland Student Ambassador of the Year 2009

Ms Rachel McKay
University of the Sunshine Coast

International Alumnus of the Year 2009

Ms Tran Dang Phi Dung
Griffith University

Outstanding International Student Support 2009

Language and Learning Advisors and Student Welfare Officers
Queensland University of Technology International College

Excellence in Outward Mobility 2009

Global Opportunities Program
University of the Sunshine Coast

Outstanding Industry Support 2009

Study Cairns

Best Practice in International Collaboration 2009 - Higher Education

Manali Medical Aid Project
School of Medicine, The University of Queensland

Best Practice in International Collaboration 2009 - Vocational Education and Training

Australia-Pacific Technical College
Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE

Best Practice in International Collaboration 2009 - Schools

Humanities Research Symposium for Youth
Christian Outreach College Brisbane

Best Practice in International Collaboration 2009 - English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students

Institute of Continuing & TESOL Education
The University of Queensland

Outstanding Work Placement Program 2009

Australian Internships

Outstanding Pathway Program 2009

International Education Services

Media contact: Alec McConnell 322 51835 or 0407 547 236

Last updated 11 September 2009