3 June 2005
NZ First's xenophobia showing
Brian Donnelly's claims that the extra funding for international education in Budget 2005 favours international students
over New Zealand citizens has shown NZ First's xenophobia yet again.
"The education package Brian Donnelly refers to is actually extra funding of $21 million in Budget 2005 for
international education over the next four years, to further boost the industry in New Zealand and strengthen bi-lateral
links offshore.
"The funding lowers the cost of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) study to domestic fee levels for new international students
in New Zealand from the beginning of 2006 and also allows the children of all international PhD students to attend
school without paying international student fees.
"I announced this initiative and the extra funding while I was in India in April. It applies to all countries - not just
China or Saudi Arabia – and all international PhD students, where they are supervised by New Zealand's leading
researchers.
"This initiative is designed to lift the quality of research in New Zealand and improve the long-term links between our
universities and international research institutions around the world.
“There will be direct benefits to universities, particularly as it will help raise the quality and output of academic
research. Some of these students may want to stay on and work in New Zealand when they have finished their studies,
which will also significantly raise our research and educational capabilities.
"Mr Donnelly also claims that New Zealand citizens are being turned away from higher studies because of student loans
and the 200-week rule.
"This is complete rubbish – all New Zealand citizens are able to pursue a tertiary education, and currently New
Zealand's participation rates in higher education are the highest they have ever been."
ENDS