In a major coup for the region, Townsville has been announced as the host of the 2020 Study Queensland International Education and Training Summit.
Held annually, the conference brings together 300 industry specialists from across the Queensland International Education and Training sector.
Minister for Innovation and Tourism Industry Development Kate Jones said the Summit would showcase Townsville as a leading regional destination for international students in mid-2020.
“We’re focused on growing industries with a great capacity to create jobs in Townsville. This summit is a major coup for Townsville. We’re bringing some of the best in the business to North Queensland to brainstorm new ways to grow this sector,” she said.
“Already more than 350 people are employed in the international education and training sector in North Queensland. By investing in this industry, we know we can create more jobs in this space in years to come.”
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said international education pumped $49 million into the Townsville economy – with 1860 students based in the region. Mr Stewart said the Summit announced today would generate more than $350,000 for local businesses.
“International education has huge potential in Townsville. More students than ever before want to base themselves in North Queensland – we’re working hard to capitalise on that interest,” he said.
“Having the state’s leading experts here in Townsville will be a great opportunity to fine tune our strategy to grow this sector.
“We also know there are great flow-on effects for our tourism industry with new data showing more than 7000 friends and relatives visit students in North Queensland every year.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the event would highlight Townsville’s ambition to develop further as an International Education and Training destination under the Townsville City Deal.
“The International Education and Training Summit will not only bring visitors to our city. It will also showcase Townsville, its infrastructure and quality education offering to key industry leaders” Mayor Hill said.
