Education New Zealand (ENZ) has announced 15 exclusive scholarships for students from India, who may apply by May 16. The Christchurch Educated Skills Scholarship programme, worth more than Rs 75 lakh, is targeted at Indian graduates wishing to study at postgraduate level in Christchurch in specific disciplines which are aligned to clearly identified skill shortage areas associated with the rebuild programme such as construction, engineering, ICT and science.

In 2010, the Canterbury region was struck by a high-magnitude earthquake . Aftershocks continued into 2012 causing widespread damage particularly in Christchurch, New Zealand’s second largest city. The New Zealand government has invested more than Rs 200,000 crore to rebuild the city, which opens a range of education and employment opportunities in the region.

The scholarships would be awarded in early June. The study period starts in August 2014 or March 2015. The initiative is a partnership between ENZ, Christchurch Educated and the Canterbury Development Corporation (CDC).

Ziena Jalil, regional director — South Asia, ENZ, said, “The scholarship will not only provide skill specific Education to students but will also give them an opportunity to work on completion of their studies .” While David Shearer, workforce manager, CDC, said, “Due to the Canterbury rebuild programme, skilled people with appropriate qualifications will find exciting career prospects in the region.”

For further details, visit www.christchurcheducated .co.nz/learn/schoolscholarships /christchurcheducated-skills-scholarship-india-2014