New Colombo Plan takes UTS students to Japan

Twelve UTS students are being given the opportunity to experience Japan through the Mitsui Internship Program, the first time the Japanese multinational has selected UTS to participate in the initiative.

Supported by the Australian Government's New Colombo Plan (NCP) Mobility Grants scheme, the internship program is introducing the UTS undergraduate students to Japanese culture, history, business and lifestyle.

The students will also gain a valuable insight into Mitsui & Co, one of the world's most diversified trading, investment and services enterprises. In Australia Mitsui manages a diverse portfolio of businesses including iron ore, coal, gas, oil, food, grains, salt, woodchips, power generation, machinery, steel products and chemicals.

Mitsui has a rich history of fostering friendship and mutual understanding between Australia and Japan, stretching back to 1971 when the Mitsui Educational Foundation launched a program of study tours for Australian university students.

"This is an incredible opportunity for the selected UTS students," said Professor William Purcell, Deputy Vice Chancellor, International and Advancement. "The program will enable our students to develop professional connections, gain industry relevant experience, develop language skills and immerse themselves in Japanese culture."

Professor William Purcell (front left) with Mitsui Australia Chairman and CEO Mr Yasushi Takahashi, representatives from DFAT and Mitsui, with UTS students participating in the Mitsui Internship Program

The students were farewelled at Mitsui's Sydney Office earlier this month. The event was attended by the Consul-General of Japan Mr Masato Takaoka, Chairman and CEO Mitsui Australia Mr Yasushi Takahashi, Professor Purcell and a representative from Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

"We are excited to partner with the university to develop this program under the New Colombo Plan," said Mitsui Australia Chairman and CEO Mr Yasushi Takahashi.

"We have developed a comprehensive in-country study program for UTS students drawing upon more than 40 years of experience gained from running our Mitsui Educational Foundation.

"I am certain the students will gain tremendous insights into Japan and a solid appreciation of the importance of the bilateral relationship to each country."

"Mitsui has a long standing history in Australia, and continues to foster a mutual understanding and friendship between Australia and Japan," Professor Purcell said.

"The university welcomes the opportunity to partner with such an established corporation, to further nurture this relationship and develop more partnerships that enhance the UTS student experience."

To support this initiative UTS was awarded $16,500 as part of the 2015 NCP Mobility Grants scheme.

The NCP offers scholarships and grants to encourage university semester exchange and short-term experiences in the Indo-Pacific. The NCP aims to strengthen relations between individuals and institutions, between Australia and its neighbours, by encouraging young Australians to spend part of their study or undertake work-related experiences in the region.

"UTS is committed to internationalising the student experience," Professor Purcell said. "We have one of the largest global exchange programs of any Australian university and offer international volunteering and internships through BUiLD, our global leaders program. By participating in the New Colombo Plan, UTS is able to offer more of our students the opportunity to study overseas."

UTS was awarded a total of $615,500 through the 2015 NCP, which will support students to engage in international experience in 12 different countries.

The students participating in the Mitsui program are Johnny Vann, Nan Li, Florence He, Minnie Zhu, Annika Uremovic, Linda Tran, Julee Nguyen-Tran, Ryan Crewe-Brown, Colin Heironymus and Edward Robins. 

UTS students interested in New Colombo Plan scholarship opportunities can register their interest on this page.