2026 WA INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAM OF THE YEAR AWARD

The CISWA WA International Education Program of the Year Award recognises the work of an individual or team in a Western Australian education institution that has contributed to the welfare or support of international students. For example, communication support programs, pathways initiatives, or social inclusion activities.

Additional weight is given to any activities which promote interaction with Australian students, with the local community or help students settle into life in Australia.

This award is sponsored by:

The winner is presented with a certificate and trophy.

Nominations open Monday 31st August and close Friday 16th October 2026!

Doc-text Doc-text Nominate here!

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this award:

  • The nominee must be an individual or team working within an institution that is a current financial member of CISWA.
  • The institution must be a registered CRICOS provider.
  • Unsuccessful nominees may be re-nominated in future award rounds.

Open 2026 Membership Contact List to find the membership contact person within your institution/organisation, or email info@ciswa.com

Nomination Process

Nominations should demonstrate excellence, innovation and impact in the field of international education.

Selection Criteria

In 1,000 words or less, provide a summary that outlines:

  • The initiative, project or achievements demonstrated by the individual or team.
  • The outcomes and impact of the initiative on the institution, international education sector and/or broader field of practice.
  • Who benefited from the initiative or project, and how those benefits were achieved.

Please refer to the Selection Criteria – CISWA International Education Program Award document when preparing your nomination.

Important Notes

  • Nominations should clearly address all selection criteria.
  • Supporting evidence may be included to demonstrate impact and outcomes.
  • All nominations will be assessed against the published selection criteria.
  • If you have any questions regarding eligibility or the nomination process, please contact info@ciswa.com.

Last year’s winner!

Winner: National Institute of Technology – NIT Connect Program

Sponsored by ACICES: Australia China International Cultural Exchange Society

NIT’s Connect Program is a student-led initiative that connects students, alumni, and staff through mentoring, volunteering, and community engagement.

NIT Connect involves students in various community programs:

  • Teaching seniors digital literacy, helping older generations navigate smartphones and online services, delivered through local libraries and not-for-profits
  • Collaborating with community organisations to deliver education on data privacy and online safety
  • Engaging in STEM outreach at local schools involving hackathons, robotics and coding sessions.
  • Championing diversity and inclusion, encouraging women to thrive in technology through organisations such as the Professional Migrant Women’s Network.

The strength of NIT Connect lies in collective effort. Student ambassadors, mentors, and NIT staff collaboratively plan, coordinate, and deliver initiatives benefiting both students and the wider community. Ambassadors identify needs, design projects, and represent international students, while mentors and staff provide guidance

This program has not only empowered students with real-world skills and confidence but has benefited local communities and the reputation of international students across Western Australia. Communities involved see the students not just as learners, but as leaders, mentors, and valued contributors.

Congratulations to all the ambassadors, mentors, participants and staff at NIT involved in this program.

Photo: Rod Jones, Chair StudyPerth and Dr Kevin McKenna, in his role as Honorary Chairman of ACICES presents Gena Rattan – NIT Connect Program Lead, Katrina Zerzan- NIT Connect Program Mentor & Plinio Ferreira Magno Pereira – NIT Connect Ambassador.