Japanese University Marks 15th Study Tour To Wintec

Nursing and medical students from Shimane University in Japan completed a two-week, short-term training programme with Wintec in New Zealand earlier this year.

The visiting students are the 15th study group to travel to Wintec from the Japanese university, marking a significant milestone in the 17-year relationship between the two tertiary education providers.

16 students participated in the academic trip, where they gained valuable insights into the New Zealand health sector, developed their language abilities, and experienced New Zealand culture first-hand.

Jo Thomas, Wintec Group Director Health, Social Practice, Science and Languages, recognises the strong connection between Wintec and Shimane University.

“Our relationship has flourished during these 15 years of study tours that our institutions have enjoyed together.

“I believe this shows a great awareness of the value this experience delivers to Shimane University students and also an impressive commitment by our institution to provide a unique and rounded educational experience.

“Wintec also shares key values and principles with Shimane. We’re both committed to high-quality tertiary education and share a belief in the value of internationalisation, not just to build skills and to provide interesting opportunities, but to make human connections across borders, to experience other cultures, and to gain insights into world views that differ from our own,” said Jo.

Professor Jun Iwata, Department of Medical, Social, and Cultural Science at Shimane University and Professor Masatoshi Kataoka, Doctor of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine 2 at Shimane University Hospital, accompanied the study group.

As part of the tour programme, the group visited Wintec’s Centre for Health and Social Practice and enrolled in English language courses through the tertiary institute’s Centre for Languages.

Outside the classroom, students stayed with local homestay families and had plenty of opportunities to explore and experience New Zealand culture and what the Waikato region has to offer.

The study tour concluded with a small celebratory event at Wintec’s City Campus, where the students, in their traditional Japanese dress, were presented certificates from Wintec as a memento of their time in New Zealand.

Each student shared highlights from their experiences on the trip, from meat pies, hokey pokey ice cream, and visiting the Glowworm Caves in Waitomo to attending a Super Rugby game, interacting with other students on campus, and learning about Māori culture.

The relationship between Wintec and Shimane University first began with a staff exchange programme in 2008, with short-term student study tours starting in 2010.

Wintec and Shimane University are proud to celebrate the completion of another successful study tour and look forward to celebrating many more.

About Wintec

Wintec (Waikato Institute of Technology) is an institute of technology based in New Zealand's Waikato region. Wintec offers a wide range of degrees, diplomas and certificates. With a focus on practical, hands-on learning, Wintec is dedicated to equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers.

Wintec is currently part of Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, located in region 2 of the national network.

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