The New Zealand government has unveiled a partial scholarship package worth NZD 260,000 under the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA) 2025, aimed at supporting Indian students pursuing higher education in the country.
In addition to the scholarship, a Virtual Internship Programme has been introduced, offering 30 students from IIT Delhi the opportunity to intern remotely with New Zealand-based companies. This initiative is designed to provide students with international industry exposure and insights into New Zealand’s innovative work culture.
Further strengthening academic ties between the two nations, New Zealand and Indian institutions are set to sign a series of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance collaboration in areas such as student mobility, joint research, and academic exchange.
The announcement was made by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon during an event at IIT Delhi, celebrating the New Zealand Centre, a flagship initiative that brings together all New Zealand universities in partnership with IIT Delhi.
The event also highlighted the significant contributions of joint research initiatives between India and New Zealand, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence, sustainability, disaster resilience, and advanced engineering.
A notable collaboration between the University of Canterbury and IIT Delhi is leveraging geospatial data for climate change mitigation, aligning with India’s national sustainability goals. This project underscores a shared commitment to tackling global challenges through research and innovation.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized the strong educational ties between the two nations. He stated, “New Zealand and India share a reciprocal education partnership, built on academic excellence and cultural exchange. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, we remain committed to equipping students with the skills needed to succeed on the global stage.”
This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening Indo-New Zealand educational collaboration, offering Indian students enhanced opportunities for academic and professional growth.
