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Celebrations as EIT Hawke’s Bay students graduate | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

1 day ago

There was a strong sense of celebration in Napier today as 300 EIT students marked the end of their study journey.

Two ceremonies were held at the Napier Municipal Theatre on Friday (April 11), with whānau, friends and supporters gathering to mark the occasion. In total, EIT awarded 2,241 diplomas, degrees and postgraduate qualifications to Hawke’s Bay-based learners who finished their studies last year.

The morning ceremony recognised graduates from the Centre for Veterinary Nursing, IDEAschool, Te Ūranga Waka, and the Schools of Education and Social Sciences, Primary Industries, Tourism and Hospitality, Trades and Technology, and Viticulture and Wine Science.

A graduation parade through Napier’s city centre followed, with students, staff, and supporters cheered on by the community.

In the afternoon, students from the Schools of Business, Computing, Health and Sport Science, and Nursing were celebrated.

Valedictorians Elijah Rogers and Kayla Hughes delivered heartfelt speeches reflecting on their time at EIT. Olympian Nigel Avery was the special guest speaker, and Tukituki MP Catherine Wedd was also in attendance.

EIT Interim Operations Lead Glen Harkness congratulated all those who graduated.

“It’s always a proud moment to see our students cross the stage. Graduation is the result of hard work, focus, and a real commitment to learning. Each of our graduates can feel proud of what they’ve achieved.”

He also acknowledged the role of EIT staff.

“Our lecturers and tutors are passionate about supporting student success. These ceremonies are a reflection of their dedication and the high-quality programmes we continue to offer across the board. We have no doubt that these graduates’ futures look bright.”

Graduation ceremonies were also held in March for EIT’s Tairāwhiti and Auckland students.

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EIT to host international Work-Integrated Learning conference | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

1 minute ago

EIT is set to join Work-Integrated Learning New Zealand (WILNZ) in hosting the annual Work-Integrated Learning International Conference, bringing together educators, researchers, and industry leaders from across Aotearoa and beyond.

To be held on April 15 and 16 at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale, the two-day event will explore the theme Transformative Work-Integrated Learning: Preparing for a Changing Future.

The annual Work-Integrated Learning International Conference will be held at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale next week. Pictured is Dr. Ondene van Dulm, EIT’s Executive Director for Student & Academic Services and Vice President of WILNZ.

More than 50 papers will be presented, covering topics from generative AI to community-based projects, with contributions across a wide range of disciplines including architecture, construction, social work, and criminal justice.

Dr. Ondene van Dulm, EIT’s Executive Director for Student & Academic Services and Vice President of WILNZ, says the conference reflects EIT’s strong focus on applied learning.

“Work-integrated learning is deeply embedded in our programmes—from nursing and teaching practicums to automotive and carpentry workshops, to on-site services in hairdressing and beauty therapy,” Ondene says. “These real-world learning experiences help prepare students for the fast-changing world of work and lead to better employment outcomes.”

The conference features roundtable discussions and presentations that reflect a wide range of good practice and research, bringing together both the university and vocational education sectors. Sessions focus, among other things, on enhancing the student experience, supporting effective industry partnerships, and exploring innovative approaches to learning and assessment.

Keynote speakers include EIT graduate and tutor Levi Armstrong (Ngāti Kahungunu) and Australian scholar Dr. Bonnie Dean, a leading figure in the global work-integrated learning community.

Ondene says the event is a timely opportunity to showcase EIT’s commitment to practical, community-led, and future-focused learning.

“It’s also a chance to highlight not only our rebuilt campus post-cyclone in the year we celebrate EIT’s 50th anniversary, but also our long-standing strength in vocational and applied education and training,” she says.

“Work-integrated learning bridges the space between students, industry, and education providers—something that’s more vital than ever as we prepare learners for jobs that may not even exist yet.”

Although based in New Zealand, WILNZ is part of a global network of similar organisations, with strong connections to Australia, Canada, and Europe. The conference fosters conversations informed by international perspectives and grounded in the needs of today’s graduates.

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EIT students help thousands of kids tackle Tough Kid challenge | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

3 minutes ago

EIT students helped bring the Mitre 10 MEGA Tough Kid challenge to life last week during two action-packed days.

The popular annual event at Mitre 10 Park Hawke’s Bay drew thousands of tamariki from across the region to take on a 23-obstacle course focused on fun, participation, and inclusion.

EIT Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science student Irina Vlasov encourages students taking part in the Mitre 10 MEGA Tough Kid challenge.

Dr Sue Scott-Chapman, a Principal Academic Staff Member in the School of Health and Sport Science and long-time event organiser, said this year’s involvement was the biggest yet.

“We had students from across the Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science; first, second and third year, as well as students from our Services Pathway, Outdoor Education, Trades Academy, and L4 Certificate in Exercise team in Maraenui. For the first time this year we had our EIT Skills for Living Programme students participating as well.”

“It’s come a long way since 2014, when we started with just a handful of students doing placements. Now it’s a major part of our calendar and a real highlight for our learners.”

Fifty EIT students volunteered each day, which Sue said was a fitting coincidence in EIT’s 50th year.

She said the event offers real-world learning that can’t be replicated in the classroom.

“They’re not just helping out. They’re learning how to engage with young people, how to motivate, and how to adapt their approach for different ages and abilities.”

For third-year Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science student Toni Palermo, the event was a highlight.

“I think probably the bonus for me is just seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces and seeing them all give it a go.”

EIT Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science student Amit Khadka volunteered at the Mitre 10 MEGA Tough Kid challenge.

Toni’s 17-year-old son, Ethan Palermo, a Trades Academy student, also volunteered.

“It was nice to see him cheering kids along. He was smiling and laughing, and it was really good.”

She said experiences like Tough Kid are valuable for everyone involved.

“I think it’s very beneficial. You’re getting kids out there that probably would never have done half of those obstacles, and I think it just pushes them out of their comfort zone.”

The course featured bouncy castles, climbing frames, slippery slides, and a finale spray-down from the fire brigade. Students helped guide participants, offered encouragement, and ensured everyone had fun, regardless of speed or ability.

“It’s not about who finishes first,” said Sue. “It’s about making sure every child feels successful. And our students walk away with just as much as they give.”

Planning is already underway for next year, and for Sue, it’s a non-negotiable on the calendar.

“It connects our students with the community, promotes physical activity, and brings joy to so many. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

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EIT students roll out collaboration with Peter Gordon at Meatball Festival | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

3 minutes ago

EIT students took their passion for food to the next level, rolling up their sleeves—and meatballs—as they joined forces with chef Peter Gordon for the inaugural Hastings Meatball Festival.

The sold-out free Meatball Festival, part of F.A.W.C! was held in the Hastings CBD on Friday evening and featured 22 meatball offerings including a vegan ‘neatball’ and a vegetarian ‘no meat’ ball.

Peter’s much-anticipated creation included a First Light wagyu meatball with labneh, pickled red onions, kawakawa salsa verde, crispy shallots and curry leaves.

EIT Culinary students spent two days working with Peter to create 1000 meatballs, gaining firsthand insight into professional dish development, from flavour pairing to presentation.

“Working with EIT students was a fantastic experience. They were engaged, eager to learn, and brought real energy to the process. I was excited to showcase our meatballs alongside so many other great creations at the festival,” Peter said.

The collaboration was a rare opportunity for students to refine their skills under the guidance of a world-renowned chef, with many describing it as a highlight of their studies.

NZ Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) student Crystal Wallis says it was a privilege to be able to cook alongside Peter.

“I was so excited about this. I asked Peter if he could give me a word of advice as a chef, and he said to find a job that suits me in a restaurant that suits me and that I am comfortable in. I thought that was really good advice.”

Crystal completed NZ Certificate in Cookery (Level 3) back in 1999, and after focusing on her family, is now realising her childhood dream of becoming a chef. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.”

Nikki Lloyd, Assistant Head of School of Tourism and Hospitality, highlighted the significance of the opportunity, noting that it was the first major event held in EIT’s recently refurbished culinary facilities.

“This was a major event for our students. Our NZ Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) students led the way, treating it as one of their key productions, but we also had involvement from Level 4 Baking students, Diploma in Cookery (Level 5) students and Trades Academy participants. It was an incredible learning experience,” Lloyd said.

EIT Chef Tutor Mark Caves echoed this sentiment, emphasising the impact of the collaboration.

“It was an eye-opening experience for the students. The interaction with Peter was phenomenal, and it really brought all of our hospitality courses together. It was a fantastic team-building opportunity.”

Peter was full of praise for the students’ enthusiasm and the quality of training at EIT.

“The quality of teaching here is highly respected, and it’s great to see so many young people passionate about entering the food industry. There’s a real spirit to hospitality, and EIT does an amazing job fostering that,” he said.

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EIT Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) graduates secure roles at partner school | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

3 minutes ago

EIT Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) graduates Isaac Winterson (second left) and Becca Williams with Havelock North Primary School Principal Nick Reed (right) and Deputy Principal Greg Bain (left).

EIT’s partnership with local schools continues to thrive, with two Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) graduates the latest to secure jobs at Havelock North Primary School.

Becca Williams and Isaac Winterson finished the programme, renowned for its practical, community-focused approach, at the end of the semester, having completed placements at Havelock North Primary during their three years.

Isaac is excited to begin his career teaching Year 4 students. Reflecting on his time at EIT, he credited the programme’s practical focus for preparing him for the realities of teaching. 

“The practical experience was invaluable. Being in classrooms, working alongside incredible teachers, and applying what I learnt built my confidence over the three years,” Isaac said. “I’m stoked to start this new chapter.” 

Isaac also expressed gratitude for the supportive environment at EIT, where lecturers provided personalised guidance. 

For Becca, joining the staff at Havelock North Primary is a homecoming. A former student at the school, she completed her final practicum in a Year 3 classroom, spending two days a week on-site throughout her final year.

“It feels so special to return to the school I attended as a child,” Becca shared. “The connections I’ve made with staff and students during my practicum gave me insight into the school’s culture and prepared me for this opportunity. It’s like a year-long job interview.” 

Becca credits EIT’s focus on real-world experience and the close relationships with lecturers for her success.

“The support was incredible. Unlike larger universities, where you might not even know your lecturer’s name, at EIT, you can contact them anytime,” she said. 

Principal Nick Reed and Deputy Principal Greg Bain have long been advocates of EIT’s Bachelor of Teaching (Primary), commending its hands-on approach and the positive impact it has on teacher preparedness.

The partnership, which dates back to the programme’s inception more than a decade ago, sees candidate teachers spend 40 per cent of their training in classrooms around the region, giving schools a unique opportunity to mentor and assess future educators.

They congratulated Becca and Isaac, and said they ticked a lot of boxes.

“We’re lucky to have them because there were a number of other schools who were keen to sign them up as well. So, we were fortunate to get in nice and early with the interview process and secure their services,” Nick said.

EIT Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) graduates Isaac Winterson (second left) and Becca Williams with Havelock North Primary School Principal Nick Reed (right) and Deputy Principal Greg Bain (left).

Greg said both Becca and Isaac were “really successful in being able to build relationships with the staff and kids”.

“We want people who are going to go the extra mile for the kids,” Nick added.

Greg described the partnership with EIT as mutually beneficial, allowing the school to evaluate top talent throughout the year.

“We get a really good look at the candidates coming through, which is really positive. I tell every candidate teacher that this is basically your interview for the whole year you’re here, so make the most of it,” he said.

Nick added: “They’re well prepared and providing that they’ve had positive postings, which in most cases they have, they’re ready to make a difference from the get-go.”

Kirsty Jones, EIT Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) Programme Co-ordinator, says: “It is always so rewarding to see graduates winning jobs in the partner schools where they practiced the craft of teaching, it is a fabulous endorsement of the quality of EIT’s BTP programme.”

“This year the graduates were snapped up by local schools with most securing positions before they had even finished their final course work. They will all start teaching in 2025.”

“Many of our past graduates have been appointed as senior leaders and mentor teachers for these beginning teachers too. I feel so proud of them and seeing them grow over the years and become leaders in the profession is heart-warming.”

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EIT’s foundation skills, and sport courses pave new pathways for rangatahi | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

3 minutes ago

Students taking part in EIT’s Level 3 Sport, Recreation and Exercise at the Maraenui Learning Centre have had a successful year.

EIT’s Foundation Skills and Sport, Recreation and Exercise courses are creating meaningful opportunities for rangatahi in Hawke’s Bay, helping them reconnect with education and discover their potential.

The courses—Level 2 Foundation Skills (Exercise and Wellbeing), Level 3 Sport, Recreation and Exercise, and Level 4 Exercise—operate out of EIT’s Maraenui Learning Centre and have become a hub of growth and transformation.

Delivered in partnership with EIT graduate and lecturer Levi Armstrong’s Meki Foundation, the programmes focus on holistic education, blending physical activity, personal development, and strong pastoral care to ensure students thrive.

“These are students who left school early and thought education wasn’t for them,” said Sport and Exercise Lecturer Coven Ratima (Ngāti Kahungunu), an EIT graduate who now tutors the same course he once completed. “But once they step into this space, they see what’s possible. It’s fun, it’s engaging, and it’s designed to build their confidence and skills.”

Hope Truman, 17, is one of those students. After leaving school at 16, she was hesitant to join the programme, even with encouragement from her mum. “At first, I didn’t want to do it. I told her, ‘I’m not going,’ but then she said she’d come with me because I didn’t want to go by myself,” Hope shared. Her mum joined her on the first day, sitting alongside her in the classroom.

That initial support was all Hope needed to embrace the programme. “After the first day, I wanted to keep coming because everyone was just so welcoming,” she said. “Even though it was their first time meeting me, they were like, ‘you’re our daughter now,’ so I thought, okay, I’m coming.”

Now thriving in the Level 3 course, Hope plans to continue her studies in 2025. She’s not alone—100 per cent of this year’s Level 3 students in Maraenui have enrolled in Level 4 for next year.

Students take part in diverse activities, from planning events to designing fitness programmes, all while developing critical skills like teamwork, time management, and leadership. Highlights of 2024 included the “Longest Day” fitness challenge and a decathlon sports day in November, which brought students from across the region together to celebrate their achievements.

This year, the courses also expanded into Gisborne for the first time, marking a significant milestone. Record numbers of students are now preparing to continue their studies in 2025, building on their successes at Level 2 and Level 3 to progress into higher qualifications.

Next year, the level 2 and 3 courses will be offered in Maraenui, Tairāwhiti, Central Hawke’s Bay and Wairoa.

Levi (Ngāti Kahungunu) said having the courses in the community breaks down barriers.

“In places like Maraenui, we’re creating safe, supportive spaces where whānau feel welcome and students can focus on their education.”

He also highlighted the importance of addressing challenges outside the classroom. “We’re removing barriers like transport and food insecurity so students can concentrate on their learning. It’s about creating a space where education feels possible and exciting.”

Coven echoed the sentiment, saying, “The growth has been phenomenal. It’s not just about education; it’s about giving them the tools to build better lives for themselves and their whānau. Seeing them succeed is the ultimate reward.”

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Final 2024 EIT public lecture explores business and climate change | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

2 minutes ago

Associate Professor Pii-Tuulia Nikula presented the final public lecture in a series organised by EIT’s Research and Innovation Centre (RIC).

EIT’s final public lecture of the year concluded with a thought-provoking session by Associate Professor Pii-Tuulia Nikula who shared her journey exploring the intricate relationship between climate change and business.

The lecture, titled Turning Up the Heat: Businesses and Climate Change, was the final in the series: ‘Reconnecting Through Research’, at MTG Hawke’s Bay recently, organised by EIT’s Research and Innovation Centre (RIC).

Central to her presentation was the critical question: Are businesses exacerbating the climate crisis, or are they helping to solve it by taking ambitious action?

This question set the stage for a discussion on the dual role businesses play in either contributing to or mitigating climate change.

She examined both the global and local trends shaping this issue, highlighting how some industries and organisations are stepping up to address environmental concerns, while others are still lagging behind.

A key focus of the lecture was the analysis of climate disclosures, science-based decarbonisation targets, and the barriers businesses face in taking action.

Pii-Tuulia discussed the rising importance of climate-related financial disclosures and the need for businesses to adopt measurable climate targets. The lecture also addressed the challenges businesses face, including the financial risks of climate change and the complexity of integrating sustainability into their existing business models.

“Climate change is not just an environmental issue, it’s a business issue,” she said. “To ensure long-term sustainability, companies need to rethink their business models to make sure that they are future-proofed”.

She explored the difference between symbolic and substantive engagement. While some businesses make claims about their commitment to sustainability, Pii-Tuulia pointed out that these symbolic commitments need to be followed by tangible actions that reduce organisational carbon footprints.

She discussed the critical role of businesses in shaping broader climate action, not just within their own operations, but also in their supply chains and external collaborations.

She also stressed that business leaders and policymakers must collaborate closely to create effective solutions and policies that drive real, systemic change.

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Move to New Zealand for a better life sees EIT student follow her architectural dream | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

6 minutes ago

Juanett Broadhurst is currently in her first year going into the second year of the NZ Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6) at EIT.

After six years of working in the finance industry, a move from South Africa for a better life for her family has seen an EIT student follow her Architectural Technology dream.

Juanett Broadhurst, 39, moved from school straight into the fast-paced finance industry in Johannesburg, South Africa, but she always yearned for more. Six years ago she and her husband Angelo made the difficult decision to move the family to New Zealand for a better life.

Juanett has three children ranging from 20-years-old to ten years-old. Her husband is a motor vehicle dealership owner in Ahuriri, but Juanett always felt that she needed to carve her own niche.

“Architecture has always been something I wanted to do since high school. My interests have always been in civil engineering or architecture. And when my son went to university last year, I realised that it’s been 25 years in the making. Up until now I’ve always been in an industry where I never felt fulfilled.”

She initially tried her hand in real estate in Hawke’s Bay, but found that she was not suited for sales.

“I soon realised that I had more interest in how the properties were put together than actually selling them.”

“We were doing research for my son on what he wanted to study when we came across architecture online. It just clicked for me. It was actually what I’ve wanted to do my whole life. I didn’t know EIT does architectural technology or even architecture for that matter.”

Juanett is currently in her first year going into the second year of the NZ Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6) at EIT. Even thought she was not at EIT when Cyclone Gabrielle hit, Juanett has seen the progress the rebuild has made in the last year.

She has loved the Architectural Technology programme at EIT and has enjoyed that the tutors are qualified industry professionals.

“I love the fact that the tutors are involved.  I am a person of structure, so I like that their programme is structured very logically and they make it fun as well. Everything is very technical and can become overwhelming, but they break it down very simply so that you get just the right amount of knowledge to progress you and make sure that you know what you are doing.”

Juanett is looking forward to getting out into the job market and she credits EIT for preparing her for this.

“They make you job ready, so that you can go work in any type of environment. You can become an interior designer or you might want to gain a little bit more experience in the industry and you can go do inspections for different companies.”

“I would love to gain some work experience in an architectural firm.”

“The designing of houses are great and that’s also something I really do love, but what I find fascinating is the design of the services.”

EIT Architectural Technology tutor Courtney Vuicakau said: “Juanett is testimony that it is never too late to follow your dreams.  Our course attracts people from all stages of life.  It requires no previous experience in architecture, we will give you the knowledge and skills required to be a participating member of an architectural practice.  We look forward to seeing Juanett continue to grow during her second year of study.”

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Experienced nurse who rose through the ranks is appointed EIT’s Head of Nursing | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

5 minutes ago

Kat Williams has been appointed Head of the School of Nursing at EIT.

An experienced nurse who has risen through the academic ranks at EIT, has been appointed Head of the School of Nursing.

Katherine (Kat) Williams, who was until her new appointment, programme co-ordinator for the Bachelor of Nursing, began working at EIT in 2017,

“I started off as a casual practicum lecturer, so I was supporting students out on clinical, and then from there I just got more and more involved. I worked my way up to a full-time position and spent most of my time in the first year team.”

After returning from maternity leave for the birth of her first son, Kiwa, Kat took on the role of programme co-ordinator for the Bachelor of Nursing. She was in the role for 14 months before she went on maternity leave for her second son, Te Ariki. She returned in April to assist with Nursing Accreditation- and fulfilled the role of Acting Assistant Head of School until the end of October this year.

Kat says that having the support of her partner,  whānau , friends and colleagues has made fulfilling her roles at EIT possible.

“Although this position is for me, it’s for my whānau too- they are the ones that keep me grounded, motivated, and undoubtably support me.”

It has been a journey for Kat to get to this position, with COVID-19, Cyclone Gabrielle, changes to EIT and Te Pūkenga, as well as changes in the leadership of the School of Nursing all having to be navigated.

One thing is for certain, Kat brings a vast array of experience in all facets of nursing overseas and in New Zealand. Born in Rotorua and schooled in Tokoroa, Kat studied for her nursing degree at Massey University and her Master’s degree at the University of Auckland.

She started off the new graduate programme at Tauranga Hospital, working in Kaupapa Māori and a surgical ward. After 18 months there she decided to apply for a role at Camp America and ended up  being the summer camp nurse, before jumping in a campervan with friends to see the United States.

After another stint in a surgical ward at a hospital in Darwin, Australia, Kat tried her luck in Saudia Arabia. While she enjoyed her time there, she then followed her yearnings to return to Alice Springs, Australia  . She soon became a nurse educator filling in as maternity cover, which ended up being a two-and-a-half year stint.

Kat’s final adventure took a different direction – working in the emergency department in Tennant Creek. Although it was exciting and there was lots of learning, she then had a desire to return home to Aotearoa.

She then worked for TriEX in Auckland and WOHC in Hamilton. Her endeavour at that stage was to continue nursing within an Occupational Health and safety space- however, her now husband lived in  Hawke’s Bay so this changed the plan somewhat.

“This led to my interest in working at EIT within nursing education- and I’ve been here ever since.”

Now that she is Head of School, Kat is focussing on building her leadership team, as well as the wider academic team in the School. She is also focussed on strengthening the relationships  with key stakeholders and gaining an understanding of their needs and the reality of the current workforce demands.

Kat also believes that research is an important part of the School of Nursing and says that in consultation with EIT’s Research team and the Faculty Dean exciting opportunities for this space to grow and develop are on the cards “however, not overnight.”

Dr Helen Ryan-Stewart, EIT’s Executive Dean, Education, Humanities and Health Science, says: “We’re thrilled to have Kat step up into the Head of School, Nursing role. With her extensive experience in nursing in Aotearoa and worldwide, and her proven track record of educational delivery, we’re confident that she will bring a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to our Faculty.”

“It is fantastic to be able to promote from within the organisation, and Kat has consistently demonstrated her commitment to EIT’s values. Kat’s energy is infectious, and we’re excited to see how she’ll inspire and motivate the nursing team.”

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EIT Associate Professor appointed co-chair of academic advisory board of award-winning climate action non-profit | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

16 minutes ago

Associate Professor Pii-Tuulia NIkula

Pii-Tuulia Nikula, an Associate Professor in EIT’s School of Business, has been appointed Co-chair of  the Academic Advisory Board of the Climate Action Network for International Educators (CANIE).

CANIE is a volunteer grassroots initiative formed by international education practitioners from around the world who see the need for the sector to step up and act on climate. CANIE serves as a platform to bring the sector together to act as a catalyst for action.

CANIE has recently won a number of awards, including the 2024 Catalyst Award from the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), 2024 Membership organisation of the year and 2024 Sustainability international impact award by PIEoneer, and the 2022 President’s Award by European Association for International Education (EAIE).

CANIE announced the academic advisory board appointments in its latest newsletter, saying: “Their expertise and commitment to sustainability in international education will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission.” Associate Professor Nikula will be co-chair of CANIE’s Academic Advisory Board along with Dr Anne Campbell who is based in the United States

The Academic Advisory Board provides advice on climate change and international education related matters or, when appropriate, responds to requests from the CANIE Global Board in relation to wider issues raised by stakeholders.

Associate Professor Nikula says that she is honoured by the appointment as CANIE plays an important advisory role on sustainability and climate change in international education.

“I am committed to the work CANIE does in the sustainability field in international education. I am looking forward to working with Anne Campbell and our interdisciplinary academic advisory board with expertise in international education, climate science, energy systems/aviation decarbonisation, climate justice, and business/management.”

Associate Professor Nikula is an internationally recognised researcher and innovative educator with extensive industry, teaching and research experience in the fields of management, policy, sustainability and higher education. She teaches courses in sustainable organisations, global strategies and research methods and supervises undergraduate and postgraduate level students. She also has extensive experience in course and curriculum design and programme and course coordination roles

Pii-Tuulia’s work has been published in leading international journals and she has co-edited two books: Sustainable Education Abroad: Striving for Change and Student Recruitment Agents in International Higher Education: A Multi-Stakeholder Perspective on Challenges and Best Practices.

EIT Head of the School of Business, Dr Gareth Allison, said: “Associate Professor Nikula’s appointment as Co-chair of CANIE’s Academic Advisory Board is a testament to her exceptional expertise and commitment to sustainability. Her appointment showcases the alignment at EIT between high quality research and real-world impact. We are proud to see her play a pivotal role in this important global initiative.”