The University of Waikato has partnered with the Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies (MRIIRS), in India’s Delhi, to offer a joint undergraduate programme in Commerce and Business Administration.
As Covid-19 and closed borders disrupt plans for international students wanting to study in New Zealand, the partnership offers students in India the opportunity to complete their first year of a bachelor’s degree at MRIIRS.
When borders open again, eligible students will be able to transition to the University of Waikato to complete their final two years of study.
University of Waikato Director of International, Sharon Calvert, says the Waikato Management School looked forward to being able to welcome international students from MRIIRS onto campus via the partnership.
She said New Zealand was an increasingly popular study destination for international students and the Waikato Management School was an attractive choice, ranked among the best in the world.
The University’s Business and Management Studies, Accounting and Finance and Economics and Econometrics were all ranked among the top courses in the 2021 QS Subject Rankings.
The Management School is also one of only one percent of business schools worldwide that have earned ‘Triple Crown’ status with accreditation from AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA. These three organisations measure the quality and standards of business school qualifications globally.
“We look forward to welcoming these students as they begin their study in Delhi, and once borders open again, providing them with a globally recognised qualification and experience in New Zealand,” she said.
Col. Girish Kumar Sharma, Director, International Education Centre MRIIRS said the partnership offered valuable opportunities for MRIIRS’ students.
“Our partnership with the University of Waikato provides the opportunity for our students to gain valuable experience in a country that is known for its innovation. At MRIIRS we are focused on creating international programs for our students and this opportunity will open many doors for them,” he said.
He said MRIIRS was recognised for the high-quality education it provided across multiple disciplines, including management. Its QS 4-star rating and its ranking among the top six private universities ensured students were receiving the best possible start at both MRIIRS’ and as they transitioned to Waikato.
Education consultancy Estero New Zealand will provide on-site support for students while they are based in India and assist with enrolment and visa applications once they have completed their first year of study at MRIIRS.
“Estero has been brilliant in bringing this opportunity onboard. They are extremely professional in work and meticulous in establishing international partnerships,” he said.