Hanoi (VNA)💫 – A ceremony was held on June 18 to present New Zealand Schools Scholarships (NZSS) to 15 outstanding Vietnamese students.

The event was held by Education New Zealand (ENZ) with the participation of the Embassy of New Zealand, families of scholarship recipients, and invited guests who were previous NZSS winners from 2019, as well as parents who have children studying at high schools in the Pacific country.

Special scholarships

The NZSS is an initiative by ENZ specifically designed for Vietnamese students and has been launched since 2019. After a temporary suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the programme resumed earlier this year to encourage talented Vietnamese students to showcase their passion and ability to earn the scholarships. After a rigorous selection process lasting four months, 15 outstanding students were honoured and are ready to embark on a new journey. Nine of them will begin their studies in July while the remainder will start in early 2024. Speaking at the event, NZ Ambassador to Vietnam Tredene Dobson said the relaunch of the programme and the support from Vietnamese parents and students are optimistic signs of the increasingly strong New Zealand-Vietnam partnership, especially in education and human resource development. The programme not only provides an opportunity for talented Vietnamese students to experience world-class education but also brings new perspectives and thinking to New Zealand students as they study alongside international peers, she said. She expressed her belief that studying in New Zealand will equip Vietnamese students with the necessary qualities to adapt to and take control of their future with a global perspective. Extending greetings to NZSS 2023 winners, ENZ's Regional Director for Asia Ben Burrowes advised students to ask many questions to their peers and teachers whom they will meet and learn with in New Zealand. He encouraged them to fully embrace all opportunities and make the most of their time there.

Equipping study abroad skills

Chairwoman of the Vietnamese Student Association in New Zealand Ha An Nguyen provided participants with practical information regarding preparations before departure, important considerations upon arrival in New Zealand, and practical advice for a smooth and successful learning experience. With outstanding academic achievements, Nguyen Viet Anh, Nguyen Bao Van and Tran Gia Huy shared their learning experiences in New Zealand, such as understanding and using English in a new environment, and getting acquainted with new teachers and friends. They also touched upon their personal experience in accessing the special support that New Zealand offers to international students, enabling them to quickly integrate and have the most meaningful learning experiences. Parents need to spend more time talking with their children, understanding their thoughts and empathising with them as a friend. They should also stay updated with information to provide guidance and motivation when needed. Dinh Minh Thao, a winner of NZSS 2023, said following the event, she feels more secure as she had her questions answered. She believed that this event will help students gain more confidence for the upcoming educational journey./.