Otago Polytechnic student Oliver Johnston has won a Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia.

The scholarship, worth almost $8000, will enable Oliver to travel to Malaysia in March. He will spend 18 weeks studying International Business at Taylor’s University, near Kuala Lumpur.

Oliver, who has just completed the second year of a Bachelor of Applied Management at Otago Polytechnic, will study four papers at Taylor’s University. The credits he gains will go towards his final qualification.

“Studying in Malaysia will give me a better understanding of the ethical issues and dilemmas affecting managers in international organisations.

“It will help me gain a better understanding of management challenge's associated with developing strategies, designing organisations and managing operations of companies whose activities stretch across national boundaries.”

Oliver sees long-term benefits, too.

“It makes me more employable to larger businesses.

“When I finish my Bachelor of Applied Management I hope to work in a global business.

“The knowledge I gain while in Malaysia will give me a better understanding of international business. This includes analysing international business on a more strategic level, which I can apply to a New Zealand business setting.”

Oliver also wants to use the opportunity to strengthen the ties between Otago Polytechnic and Taylor’s University.

“I will encourage others in my degree to study abroad and expand their cultural knowledge while sharing mine.

“I will also take advantage of all extra-curricular activities offered by Taylor’s University to expand my network and knowledge and help the students there learn more about New Zealand and its culture.”

Oliver is one of 139 recipients in the latest round of Prime Minister’s Scholarships for Asia (totalling $1.3 million).

Established in 2013, the scholarships have enabled more than 1200 New Zealand students to build new connections and networks, developing a deeper understanding of language and culture, and gaining an international perspective in their area of expertise.

Read more about our Business programmes.

 


Published on 13 Dec 2017

Orderdate: 13 Dec 2017
Expiry: 2 Mar 2018