Australia's reputation in the international education sector is under serious threat, as revealed in a recent parliamentary inquiry. The vocational education and training (VET) sector is particularly at risk, as certain international education providers have been accused of unscrupulous practices.
Recent hearings by the committee shed light on various issues, including collaboration between providers and unregulated international education agents to poach students from renowned public institutions for substantial commissions. Other alarming revelations include the sale of work visas and the existence of "ghost schools" – institutions where students neither attend classes nor receive legitimate degrees.
The growing concern is that these malpractices not only tarnish the reputation of the sector but can also lead to a lack of trust within the community. If the issues persist, it could jeopardise the very existence of the sector, as the public could grow increasingly distrustful.
Many feel that not enough is being done to address these problems. While regulations exist, their enforcement has been called into question. The primary concern is that the focus remains largely on paperwork and peripheral aspects rather than the core quality of education and the calibre of graduates.
Currently, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) regulates around 900 providers that cater to approximately 180,000 international students. However, the ASQA's existing regulatory model predominantly centers on evaluating individualVijay PatelS provider risk, rather than assessing the standard of teaching or outcomes for graduates. Despite receiving 470 complaints about training providers since July 2022, only seven institutions have faced registration cancellations or suspensions.
Insights from a former teacher at a private educational institute revealed alarming details. The institute reportedly used agents to direct international students to courses equipped with outdated resources, insufficient accreditation, subpar teaching, and inadequate classroom conditions. These agents, prioritising their commissions, often overlooked the quality of courses, leading to students paying high fees for substandard education.
Further evidence suggests that course materials used were severely outdated, classrooms were overcrowded, and educational resources were scarce. Moreover, a lack of training and verification for educators resulted in teachers with inadequate English skills and constant changes in management.
Menelaos Koumides, the managing director of the Australian Academy of Vocational Education and Trades, concurred with the concerns, pointing out the inefficiency of the current regulatory system. He noted the pressing need for independent assessments and transparency to hold registered training organisations accountable. Furthermore, the over-reliance on agents and their inflated commissions, coupled with the automatic passing of students with minimal study requirements, are indicative of a regulatory system that is unfit for ensuring quality education.
These revelations emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive reforms and stringent measures to safeguard the reputation of Australia's international education sector.
