2020 Programme Update
2020 scholars were just starting Day 1 of their Contemporary Scholars Conference (CSC) and their 15-month programme with 70 other international scholars in Australia when the government announced new border and arrival measures.
The scholars decided to return home the next day and the CSC programme was eventually cancelled three days later as all countries advised their citizens to return home immediately.
We are now looking at how we engage these scholars in one of the greatest learning experiences as we face disruption of the global economy and food production challenges.
At this point their programme will include some international webinars and preparation in New Zealand and potentially Australia. Hopefully international borders will be open again by early-mid 2021.
2021 Scholars Applications
We intend to select 2021 scholars.
However, the scope and timing of the scholarships will depend on the ability to travel for the programme, the Contemporary Scholars Conference and the six-week Global Focus Programme going ahead as scheduled. Potentially we could have two groups of scholars travelling in 2021.
Suffice to say, the team and Trustees are focused on finding safe ways for 2021 scholars to travel and learn. Assuming that is possible, it will be important for New Zealand to have scholars assessing the changes to the international agri-sector and bring those lessons home for the benefit of all.
