The University of Waikato has partnered with Sri Lanka’s Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT), to offer a pathway for engineering or computer science students to complete their study at Waikato.
As Covid-19 disrupts plans for international students wanting to study in New Zealand, the partnership offers students in Sri Lanka the opportunity to complete the first two years of their undergraduate degree at SLIIT.
When borders open again, eligible students will be able to transition to the University of Waikato to complete their final two years of study towards a Bachelor of Engineering, with honours, or a Bachelor of Computer Science.
SLIIT is the largest private higher education provider in Sri Lanka and University of Waikato, Director of International, Sharon Calvert, said the partnership presented significant benefits for both institutes.
New Zealand is an increasingly popular study destination for international students, and studying Engineering and Computer Science at Waikato are attractive choices, ranked among the best in the world, she said.
Waikato launched New Zealand’s first dedicated Artificial Intelligence Institute in 2021 and its cyber security research laboratory was among the best in New Zealand, both areas offering access to academics and with strong connections nationally and internationally.
“Our partnership with the Sri Lanka Institute of Technology is an exciting development for students with both our institutes committed to helping our graduates achieve success in their long-term career goals.”
“We look forward to welcoming these students as they begin their study in Sri Lanka and providing them with a globally recognised qualification and experience in New Zealand,” she said.
Professor Mahesha Kaprubandara, Dean of the International Office at SLIIT, said the partnership presented an exciting opportunity for students in Sri Lanka and a pathway for them to achieve their career goals.
“Collaboration between our institutes will provide significant opportunities for our students and pave the way for SLIIT students to become ambassadors and advocates of joint-partnerships designed to further education, culture and business around the world,” she said.
