The Embassy of Australia in Nepal today advised Nepali students studying in Australian Institute of Business and Technology, whose registration was cancelled by Australian authorities, to remain enrolled and continue classes.

Future of more than 1,000 Nepali students, especially those pursuing diploma and advanced diploma in nursing, hangs in balance after the cancellation of the college’s Vocational Education and Training registration and Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students registration by the Australian Skills Quality Authority on February 19.

The ASQA took the decision following the college’s failure to demonstrate that its marketing practices were accurate and factual. It stated that AIBT could not demonstrate that it had qualified staff or it had implemented an assessment system to ensure learners had the skills needed. Moreover, AIBT has been offering a Diploma of Nursing that is not accredited by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council.

However, AIBT has 28 days from February 19 to seek a review of this decision by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

And, the institution has already sought a review. This means the cancellation decision will take effect from March 26. “Until the review is determined, the institute is permitted to continue operating, including conducting classes,” the embassy stated.

The embassy advised that any students studying with AIBT, which has campuses in Sydney and Brisbane, should remain enrolled and continue to attend classes, to ensure that the conditions of their visa are met and their recourse to the Tuition Protection Service is assured should the provider cease delivering its courses.

Published: 22 February 2019/The Himalayan Times