Rishi Khandelwal on the Return of Australian education for International Students
Australia’s back baby. Yes, you heard it, from 1st December the Australian Government has announced the return of international students to certain universities. According to Rishi Khandelwal, many students would now be able to start or recommence their higher education which had to be either put on hold or was carried out remotely since Australia shut its borders to the rest of the world in March 2020 in light of the Covid Pandemic.
Rishi Khandelwal states that while a lot of international students have turned their attention to Canada or UK in the meantime, those who have stuck around should have plenty to cheer about. The country is definitely facing a skills shortage of migrant workers and with billions of dollars committed to infrastructure spending, we should definitely be able to see some positive outcomes in the education sector.
Rishi Khandelwal Advises Students to Check All the Rules, Regulations, and Protocols before taking the next step
At this stage, it is believed that many universities have signed up to the pilot program of allowing international students in phases and soon all colleges and universities would have international students back. However, Rishi Khandelwal cautions students to check the rules of departure and arrival for any city before making any travel plans. For example, requirements relating to the PCR Covid test, allowing extra time to check-in, transit destinations, etc. Airlines will have their own restrictions and not to forget that many travelers would still require a travel exemption.
So with the new rules announced what would it mean for international students who lost their study pathway due to waiting for the borders to open or could not apply for their relevant visas such as post-study work visas due to being stuck overseas etc. Rishi Khandelwal suggests that to consult their agent as in most cases they can claim exemptions for the time lost due to covid pandemic.
What are the Future Prospects for International Students?
International students contribute about $40 billion to the economy and also contribute to the workforce. Rishi Khandelwal believes that post covid there will be additional opportunities and once international students settle in they should get rewarded for their patience for their future career and permanent residency pathways.
Are there any more risks in this climate? Rishi Khandelwal is of the view that most governments around the world have accepted that covid is here to stay and rather than trying to prevent it, the focus is on managing the risks through public health measures such as vaccination, contact tracing, and targeted lockdowns when needed.
Should you be Considering an Internal Degree or Diploma in India?
According to Rishi Khandelwal absolutely. Australia has much to offer in terms of quality of education, lifestyle, and career options. Many critical sectors are in need of a skilled workforce and Rishi Khandelwal suggests that the return of international students will allow Australian businesses to continue to find manpower most when they need it.
Furthermore, Rishi Khandelwal comments that the timing couldn’t be better. As Australia gears up for its summer and holiday season in the Southern Hemisphere, this might be a better time to get ready for new arrivals. Most experts believe that Corona Virus will be more prevalent in the winter season when people spend most of the time indoors which is usually in June and July. If international students miss the boat at the starting of the February semester, they might find it harder to arrive and settle in the winter season. In addition, December is also the time when Australians have been just allowed to travel overseas and many Australians have already started traveling. Therefore, Rishi Khandelwal believes it is again a good idea for new arrivals to fill some shortages left due to departing Australians in the job sector.
Finally, Rishi Khandelwal recommends to any international student that arrives in Australia to make a local support network of friends or colleagues that you know one hand and be in touch with your family overseas on a regular basis on the other hand. Hopefully, you will be able to balance the feeling of homesickness together with the excitement of entering this country for your future goals.
