Australia's independent skills training and higher education sectors have welcomed confirmation that the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) has come into force today. The Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) is the peak body representing independent skills training and higher education providers. ITECA looks forward to the opportunities that the IA-ECTA presents for its members in the skills training and higher education sectors.
"There are strong economic and societal benefits for Australia through improved access to the adult Indian education sector, and ITECA members look forward to developing the collaborative relationships in India to bring these to fruition," said Troy Williams, ITECA Chief Executive.
Data in the 2022 ITECA State Of The Sector Report highlights the importance of the Indian education market to the Australian independent tertiary education sector.
India is currently the largest source of enrolments for independent skills training providers, with 70,616 student enrolments (99.2% of total Indian skills training student enrolments), according to data in the 2022 ITECA State Of The Sector Report.
Similarly, for independent higher education providers, India is currently the largest single source of enrolments, with 18,121 student enrolments (32.0% of total Indian higher education student enrolments) according to data in the 2022 ITECA State Of The Sector Report.
"ITECA looks forward to working with both the Australian and Indian Governments to ensure that the benefits of IA-ECTA deliver the outcomes for both Indian students and Australian independent tertiary education providers," Mr Williams said
Reflecting on IA-ECTA, Mr Williams said it was one of many important initiatives to help Australia's international education sector recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.
"Some providers continue to do it tough, and student visa processing issues continue. We're hopeful that IA-ECTA will help in the rebuilding phase and leverage Australia's world-class education system, our liveable cities, multicultural society and student protection mechanisms," Mr Williams said.
