A group of Cambodian students who had previously studied in New Zealand met with the country’s Prime Minister, the Right Honourable John Key, two weeks ago while the leader was in the capital for the ASEAN summit.

A key part of New Zealand’s development assistance to Cambodia is funnelled into “human resources” development, which includes a scholarship program for students and government workers to foster English language.

The program is made up of three schemes: the New Zealand ASEAN Scholars (NZAS), the English Language Training for Officials (ELTO) and the English Language Training for Senior Officials (ELTSO).

NZAS awards up to 30 places per year to Cambodians to undertake post-graduate study at universities across New Zealand, while ELTO sponsors Cambodian government workers to learn English for six month.

ELTSO supports senior government officials to train in New Zealand for shorter periods.

The students attended a reception with around 200 other guests, including New Zealand Trade Minister, Tim Groser, the Ambassador-Designate to Cambodia, Tony Lynch, senior diplomats and government officials and pre-departure students.

Information on scholarships and assistance with study application can be obtained from the IDP Study Abroad Resource Centre at no cost.