News and Opportunities
Future Unlimited Education Fair in Mongolia attracts over 2000 visitors
15 Oct 2013
For a second year, Austrade has hosted a very successful Future Unlimited Education Fair in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia on
27–28 September.
Eighteen Australian education providers participated, covering higher education, vocational education and training (VET), English and high school programs. Compared with the inaugural fair in 2012, this was double the number of participating institutions and included five Group of Eight universities.
While the format was similar to last year’s event, Austrade placed further emphasis on VET opportunities, including a presentation by Kern Von Hagen of the non-government organisation Vocational Education Training Center (VETC) and by Rio Tinto. Through its subsidiary Oyu Tolgoi (OT) Limited Liability Company, Rio Tinto has spent USD126 million on education and training over the past four years.
Day 1 of the event was attended by 130 participants who stayed on for a networking function. A meeting with education agents was organised to assist providers looking for agents.
Day 2 was a traditional education exhibition open to students and parents. There were more than 1900 exhibition visitors, representing a significant 20 per cent increase on the previous year’s event. According to participating education providers, the event was a great success and there was great support for future planning. All participating institutions indicated that they are looking forward to joining again next year.
A concurrent Study in Australia seminar was organised by Austrade and covered a general overview of the Australian education system, visa applications, scholarships and living in Australia. Interest was expressed for all levels of study. As expected with many emerging markets, scholarship availability was a common question. A dedicated booth provided information on the Australia Awards in Mongolia.
Austrade took an integrated approach, working with AusAID, Austraining, the Mozzies Association (alumni), and the Government of Mongolia, reflecting a positive standing in the market.
Australia ranks third as an English-speaking study destination for Mongolia students. The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC), Australian Embassy in Beijing, has indicated that the number of Mongolian students who have obtained a visa has increased 54 per cent compared to 2011–12.
Austrade is aiming to increase awareness of Australian education through various education campaign activities. The Australia Future Unlimited Education Fair Mongolia 2014 is currently scheduled for 20–21 September 2014 and Austrade welcomes Australian participation from all sectors.