Congratulations to our graduating international students

The Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) is pleased to announce that over 390 international students from more than 60 countries have graduated this year from 30 different CIT programs.

CIT Chief Executive Officer Leanne Cover congratulated students for their unwavering hard work, dedication and enthusiasm across the broad fields of study available at the Institute.

"At CIT we are committed to providing world class education and training, while also promoting Canberra as a study destination to local, national and international students. The graduation of over 390 international students this year alone is a testament to that," Ms Cover said.

One such student is Ramalka Gunathunga. Born in Sri Lanka, Ramalka is who today graduated with her Diploma of Nursing (HLT54115).

"Living in Sri Lanka gave me the desire to help others. I studied biology in school with the aim of becoming a nurse and volunteering in disadvantaged places," Ms Gunathunga said.

"I moved to Australia for my higher studies and enrolled at CIT in July 2017. I thought that CIT would be the best place to gain skills, qualifications and work experience to develop my career. Through CIT, I've completed Certificate III Individual Support (Ageing) (CHC33015) and Certificate IV in Ageing Support (CHC43015). Through these qualifications, and through the connections I established while at CIT, I was able to find employment at an aged care facility.

"I decided to continue my study with a Diploma of Nursing (HLT54115) at CIT. I am now graduating with four hundred hours of recognised professional experience, which will count towards 24 credit points of a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Canberra. This is almost half of the degree."

As an international student, Ramalka said moving to an unfamiliar place is not so easy, so the support given by CIT is hugely important.

"CIT was more than just my Institute, it was my community. It helped me get ready for life at work. Teachers and support staff shared my goals at every step of the way.

"From my first day, I was welcomed and cared for. I enjoyed a supportive environment that encouraged close collaboration among peers, with learning advisors, program coordinators and nursing educators who were always ready to help.

"It is also important to remember the sacrifices made by our parents and family members. I would like to thank my parents, sister, aunty and uncle in Canberra for being my motivation force and making this all possible."

CIT Board Chair Craig Sloan said the ceremony was a chance to celebrate the achievements of the students, but also to remember the contributions made by their friends and families.

"The CIT community acknowledges the support given by families to the education, career and future goals of students who travel so far, experiencing unfamiliar language, customs, food, climate and surroundings," Mr Sloan said.

"It is also important to recognise the great contribution international students make to our city. They bring diverse perspectives, build cultural awareness and understanding, drive broader visitation to Canberra, build business, trade and investment links, all positively impacting the economic, social and cultural wellbeing of this city and region.

"After graduation these student can become advocates to raise the profile of Canberra around the world."

For more information on the programs and support offered to international students, visit: international.cit.edu.au