The Government’s target of doubling the economic value of Export Education over the next five years has found favour in a number of quarters, the most important of which is Education New Zealand, which became a Crown entity about three months ago.
In a statement issued before the General Election, the National-led Government had said that it would do its best to promote New Zealand as an education destination in a number of countries, especially South East Asia.
The Government had set a target of turning over $5 billion over the next 15 years through Export Education.
Those words, forming a part of the Leadership Statement of the Education Ministry were music to the ears of Education New Zealand Chairman and former Chief Executive of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce Charles Finny.
“This is an exciting time for international education in New Zealand. We welcome the fact that the Government is setting ambitious targets for the education sector and seeing them as a key component in its economic growth strategy,” he said.
According to Mr Finny, international education was on the growth path and that Education New Zealand could add value by working closely with Foreign Affairs and Trade Ministry, Education Ministry, New Zealand Trade & Enterprise, Immigration New Zealand and Tourism New Zealand.
Mr Finny said there were challenges and problems but these can be overcome with our quality product.
“International education is a vital part of the New Zealand economy and we want to see it grow even further. We can achieve our goals if the New Zealand Inc dynamic works well and if we can bring the entire sector with us.
“This includes working closely with education promotion agencies throughout New Zealand. Ultimately, it will be up to the sector to deliver results the Government is seeking. Our role is to help the sector get there,” he said.
New Chief Executive
In another statement, Mr Finny announced the appointment of Grant McPherson as the Chief Executive of the Education New Zealand effective next month, succeeding incumbent Lester Wolfreys.
“Mr McPherson brings a mix of senior private sector and public sector experience to what is an extremely challenging position. He will be required to lead his team to develop and implement a series of strategies to deliver on the Government’s ambitious expectations of Education New Zealand,” Mr Finny said.
Mr McPherson was earlier the Deputy Chief Executive of New Zealand Trade & Enterprise and its Regional Director South and South East Asia.
“It is essential that Education New Zealand works closely with the international education sector and Government entities focused in the international space. Mr McPherson has a proven record of working closely with Government agencies,” Mr Finny said.
