Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon’s recent visit to Japan underscored the growing ties between New Zealand and Japan, particularly in the education sector. Accompanied by a delegation including Minister for Trade Hon Todd McClay and various sector representatives, the visit aimed to bolster educational and trade relations. Central to the mission was promoting New Zealand's education sector, which is pivotal in enhancing bilateral exchanges. Japan is New Zealand’s third-largest source of international students, with significant mobility in both directions. The visit strategically highlighted opportunities for educational collaboration, including the signing of key agreements and fostering people-to-people links.
A highlight of the trip was the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Massey University and six prestigious all-girls secondary schools in Japan. This MoU establishes a special admission system facilitating Japanese students' entry into Massey University’s foundation and bachelor’s programs. Emphasizing academic excellence and cultural exchange, the agreement aims to empower young women in their educational pursuits. Shelly Turner, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Massey University, emphasized the institution’s commitment to supporting Japanese students academically and personally, fostering a robust educational environment.
Mrs Amanda Luxon’s visit to Homei Elementary School, affiliated with Japan Women’s University, further strengthened ties. This visit highlighted ongoing cooperation under the Education Cooperation Arrangement between Education New Zealand and Japan Women's University, promoting student and teacher exchanges, gender equality, and women’s empowerment. Starting in 2025, Homei Elementary School will send its first cohort of students to St. Margaret’s College in New Zealand, enhancing cross-cultural understanding through study and homestay experiences.
The delegation also celebrated the “Tobitate” scholarship program, which sends Japanese students abroad. Supported by New Zealand, this initiative enhances cultural understanding and educational ties between the two nations. The Sports and Business Leadership Luncheon, part of the visit’s events, showcased New Zealand’s commitment to education and highlighted successful collaborations like the Game on English program, sponsored by Air New Zealand.
Ben Burrowes, ENZ’s Acting General Manager for Asia, expressed optimism about upcoming events in Japan. Scheduled for later this year, the New Zealand Fair and Agent Seminars aim to further promote New Zealand’s educational opportunities in Japan, building on the momentum generated by Prime Minister Luxon’s visit. “The timing of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s recent visit to Japan couldn’t have been better. We will look to further leverage this focus by continuing our work with the sector to promote New Zealand’s education offerings with prospective students, families and education stakeholders in Japan”.
