The China Tick

Media Release
“The China Tick”

Today representatives of NZQA, Education New Zealand and sector representatives from private tertiary providers met to discuss the criteria for being listed on the Chinese Government’s Student Advisory Website.

The Chinese Government wants to provide information on their Website which gives guidance on recommended providers to students wishing to study abroad in New Zealand. In full and frank discussion the meeting today was concerned not to create a new standard which would undermine existing NZQA quality assurance systems. At the same time participants recognised the responsibility the Chinese Government feels towards its young people intending to study abroad.

As the Chinese Government is more concerned about degrees and degree pathways, these are likely to be the main focus of the list. The meeting felt strongly that for those qualification areas not included in this focus there should be a link to the NZQA Website which lists all quality assured providers in each qualification category.

Mike Roberts of NZAPEP said that educational institutions, both public and private will stand or fall on their ability to deliver quality programmes. The Association recognises that not every institution that has been registered is operating in a manner which is consistent with the conditions upon which their registration, course approval, and accreditation was originally given by NZQA. The sector needs to be more vigilant in ensuring that it delivers on the quality standards contracted with NZQA.

Mike Roberts went on to say that the primary objective must be the provision of good education, resulting in a qualification which is both recognised and useful, and the creation of an educational environment which is safe, secure, and facilitates learning.

The main factors in achieving this are:

Approved qualifications
Good quality curricula
Good quality staff
Adequate resourcing
Competent management
Financial security of the institution
Protection of students’ prepaid tuition and accommodation

The Association is supportive of the Government’s efforts in resolving this issue and looks forward to working further with the government agencies.”

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