Minister for Workforce Training Selena Uibo will today leave for Indonesia, where she will lead an education industry delegation aimed at boosting student numbers from the country by 20 per cent before the end of 2020.

The focus of the four day mission is promoting the Territory’s strong Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector and putting the NT on the map as a leading provider of quality education with one of our closest neighbours.

The 14 person delegation will attend the inaugural Indonesia Vocational Education and Training Summit in Jakarta, along with an education agent briefing and two “Alumni and Friends of the Territory” events.

The delegation includes representatives from private training providers, Charles Darwin University, the Department of Education and the Department of Trade, Business and Innovation.

The overseas industry delegation is a key part of the Territory Labor Government’s seven year International Education and Training Strategy, released in April.

It aims to grow the Territory’s population of overseas students from the current 2500 to 10,000 by 2025 and increase the market’s contribution to the local economy to more than $300 million.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Workforce Training, Selena Uibo.

“International education is a priority growth sector for the Territory Labor Government. Bringing more international students will diversify the economy and create jobs for Territorians.

“International students contributed $91 million to our economy last year and our government has a strategy in place to quadruple that contribution by 2025.

“As the Capital of Northern Australia, we are in an excellent position to grow this market, particularly with our closest neighbours.

“This mission will enable us to promote the Northern Territory’s capability to provide high quality vocational education and training to international students, while strengthening collaborative ties with Indonesia that go back at least 300 years.

“I look forward to showcasing the excellent education and training opportunities we can offer Indonesian students.”

Travel costs for Ms Uibo and one staff member:

Flights: $2678.00

Accommodation: $928

Media contact: Kim Stephens 0417 683 144