Hon Chris Carter
Minister of Education

14 July 2008 Media Statement
Report of assault concerns Minister

Education Minister Chris Carter says that the report of an assault on an international student from China is something that he is very concerned about.

“Naturally, I am worried about the boy and I appreciate the concerns his parents must be feeling about this situation.

“I am also worried about New Zealand’s reputation and how news of this incident could damage our country’s image as a safe destination for international students,” Chris Carter said.

Annually around 90,000 international students study in New Zealand. Our country has a well-earned reputation as a safe and caring destination for these students.

“Every international student in New Zealand needs to feel secure. Their parents need to be confident that their children will be safe in New Zealand.

“I am very disappointed to hear of this alleged incident occurring, however we do have processes in place that ensure New Zealand is, and continues to be, a safe study destination for international students,” said Chris Carter.

New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world to have put in place a Code of Practice to ensure that international students are well looked after when they are studying in New Zealand. This Code has been in place since 2002 and provides a framework to education providers for the care of international students.

The Code of Practice requires that all education providers that enrol international students are signatories to the code.

“The Ministry of Education has robust systems in place to manage the pastoral care of our international students. They are currently working with the student and school to ensure his welfare.

ENDS

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