TAFE crisis spreads to international students

ABOUT 100 international students have been caught up in the TAFE SA scandal in a damaging blow to the state’s valuable education export sector.

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ABOUT 100 international students have been caught up in the TAFE SA scandal.

The Federal Education Department has contacted TAFE to seek assurance the students are going to be able to complete their study or get their money back.

But industry experts are concerned about the impact of the ongoing crisis on the state’s major money maker, which pumped more than $1.4 billion into SA’s economy in the past year. International education was South Australia’s second largest export after wine last year.

Education Adelaide chair Bill Spurr warned the matter could jeopardise the industry.

He said the body, which marketed Adelaide as a centre of education excellence on behalf of governments and institutions, had been taking calls from overseas agents concerned about the unfolding events.

“News spreads fairly fast through social media in the international education industry,” Mr Spurr said.

South Australian Minister for Education and Child Development, MP Susan Close speaks to the media during a school funding announcement.

“It’s essential it’s fixed quickly and students cannot be left out of pocket. It’s disappointing but I’m sure it will be fixed up by TAFE because international education is too important as a sector.”

Skills Minister Susan Close promised the TAFE SA international team would contact affected students. International students were understood to have been emailed last week.

“I have been advised by TAFE SA that there are four affected qualifications that are offered to international students,” Dr Close said.

“My main priority is to ensure all students receive the support and advice they need and there is minimal disruption to their studies.

“International students have special concerns and requirements in terms of travel, visas and accommodation and I am committed to working with them to minimise any inconvenience.”

Federal Education Minister Simon Birmingham wanted to assure international students there was a “safety net” in place to ensure none were left “high and dry”. He said the State Government should work hard to minimise the impact the “debacle” could have on the state's reputation.

International students can contact the TAFE SA International team on 8207 8279.