University of Wollongong Global Enterprises delivers lessons in export success
Wollongong (Dharawal Country), New South Wales
Australian Export Awards 2023 International Education winner University of Wollonong Global Enterprises (UOWGE) is at the forefront of delivering quality higher education on an international scale.
About UOW Global Enterprises
UOW Global Enterprises (UOWGE) is at the forefront of delivering quality higher education on an international scale. A subsidiary of the University of Wollongong (UOW), UOWGE owns and operates the UOW Dubai, UOW College Australia, UOW College Hong Kong and UOW Malaysia.
Together these institutions offer almost 200 programs to more than 14,000 students every year. These include higher education, vocational training, English language and professional development.
Employing over 1,200 staff globally, UOWGE has a strong culture of diversity and equity. UOWGE is a purpose driven organisation, with a vision to empower futures though access to quality education across the globe. Key export markets include China, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam.
Visit UOW Global Enterprises website.
UOW Global Enterprises' story
UOWGE is on a mission to create a brighter future through inclusive, transformative global education.
A subsidiary of the University of Wollongong (UOW), UOWGE owns and operates the UOW in Dubai, UOW College Australia, UOW College Hong Kong, and UOW Malaysia.
UOWGE programs include higher education, vocational training, English language and professional development.
Diverse teaching models provide a global student experience
UOWGE is a student-focused organisation. ‘Our seamless integrative network sees students and staff benefit from a truly global experience,’ says Managing Director and Group CEO, Marisa Mastroianni.
UOWGE’s offshore and onshore teaching models provide multiple access points for students.
‘Our offshore campuses offer a combination of UOW-awarded and locally accredited degrees,’ says Mastroianni.
‘By being fully embedded in local communities, we can build relationships with government and industry, and tailor experiences for students with local nuance.’
Bringing international students Down Under
UOWGE is also responsible for recruiting international students to the University of Wollongong.
There is significant growth opportunity here, with higher education contributing over A$26 billion to the Australian economy each year.
UOW College Australia, for example, partners with Linc Education to deliver a program allowing students to commence their diploma in India before completing it in Australia.
Expansion in Malaysia
During 2022, UOWGE acquired the Malaysian higher education institution Ramsay Sime Darby Healthcare College. This acquisition saw its Malaysian institution expand in the health education market.
‘Despite rapid growth in the Malaysian labour market over the past decade, there is a significant shortage of nursing professionals. The Malaysian Government is focused on increasing nursing density ratios as a priority,’ says Mastroianni.
‘This strategic acquisition increases our market share within health education in Malaysia. It also provides important relationships within local industry for support and placement partnerships.’
International markets a key to growth
UOWGE’s offshore instuitions have also developed strategic partnerships with local counterparts. This provides new delivery channels for existing programs. The approach has been particularly successful in China, Vietnam and India.
UOWGE’s Hong Kong College has recently expanded into mainland China with new partnerships between 4 highly ranked Chinese universities. These partnerships now account for 40% of UOW College Hong Kong’s enrolments.
‘Connections and market data through Austrade has been instrumental in our business development in Hong Kong and Malaysia,’ says Mastroianni.
‘Austrade continue to provide important assistance in the new markets that we are currently pursuing.’
Student mobility fosters international education experiences
With its extensive international footprint, UOWGE can provide students with opportunities across all its campuses.
It achieves this through structured programs, dual awards, study tours and pathway agreements between campuses. In 2022, 150 students participated in mobility opportunities between campus locations.
‘This opportunity allows students to experience a truly global education. This is critical for broadening their perspectives and equipping them for the challenges of the future,’ says Mastroianni.
Targeting growth in India
UOWGE’s next target market is India. The institution is well advanced with plans to start operations in Gift City, Gujarat in 2024.
‘India is a market that we had always seen as having great potential due to its expanding population,’ says Mastroianni. ‘But there were significant barriers that prohibited us from entering.’
Recent relaxation of regulatory restrictions in the special economic zone of Gift City has provided fresh opportunities. ‘We were quick to respond and ensure that we are well positioned to enter this substantial market,’ says Mastroianni.
Lessons for education exporters
What lessons has UOWGE learned through its own export journey?
‘There is no overnight success,’ says Mastroianni. ‘Business development takes time and building relationships is key to any business initiative.’
It is also important to have key people on the ground, she says. ‘This allows you to navigate in-country barriers, understand the market, and respond and adapt quickly.’
International Education and Training finalists
- Adelaide Consulting Group
- Alana Kaye College
- Edith Cowan University
- Melbourne Polytechnic
- TAFE Queensland
