International Student Employability Guide: A case for continued investment and innovation
IEAA is delighted to have published the Second Edition of the International Student Employability: A Guide for Australian Education Providers to equip Australia education institutions with best practice principles in preparing international students for success in a dynamic and competitive graduate labour market. Written by Dr Alexsandr Voninski and Dr Dino Willox, the Guide draws on the latest research and presents case studies of current innovative institution–student initiatives.
‘Employability has been a key priority for Australian government, with local, state and Commonwealth agencies developing strategies and investing heavily in enhancing employment outcomes for international students. As the world continues to evolve – notwithstanding the acceleration of change spiked by COVID-19 this year – it is more crucial than ever that international students are work-ready upon graduation,’ commented IEAA Chief Executive Phil Honeywood.
Employability has been a key priority for Australian government, with local, state and Commonwealth agencies developing strategies and investing heavily in enhancing employment outcomes for international students.
‘International students may need assistance recognising the need to engage in a range of experiences to develop capabilities in high demand by industry. They also require support to navigate the job application proves, understanding Australian workplace culture, and develop networks. Perceptions of poor English language proficiency of international students can be a barrier to employment. Similarly, employers are often unaware of the value that international students can bring to their businesses,’ stated Dr Voninski and Dr Willox.
‘I am immensely grateful for the willingness with which colleagues have shared their best practice and innovations. I believe that, as a community, we must continue to share our ideas, creativity, and inspiration to positively influence society in these interesting times’ added Dr Willox.
‘It’s been a rewarding project to work on during a challenging time for all of us. I’m looking forward to this guide making a positive impact for our friends and colleagues in the sector’, concluded Dr Voninski.
The new Guide discusses the current challenges facing education providers and presents 10 best practice principles to enhance the prospects of international students in developing a point of differentiation in a highly competitive global labour market.
Dr Alexsandr Voninski is Partner at Edified, an education-specialist consultancy, where he provides strategic direction and insights to projects spanning student support, recruitment, enrolment planning, governance and qualitative stakeholder engagement. Dr Dino Willox is the Director, Student Employability, at The University of Queensland and a Principal Fellow of AdvanceHE.