adelaide-education-group-newsletter-volume-17-issue-3

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Newsletter

March 2026, Volume 17, Issue 3

AEG News

Women's Month

At Adelaide Education Group (AEG), our Adelaide Institute of Higher Education (AIHE), Adelaide Institute of Business & Technology (AIBT), and Adelaide International School (AIS) women are Agile in thinking, Empathetic in leadership, and Grounded in purpose. This Women’s Month, we honour them who continue to inspire progress, foster inclusion, and lead with heart. Their contributions are not only shaping our organisation today but building a stronger, more equitable future for tomorrow.

Governor's Multicultural Awards 2025

We are very happy to share that the AEG's Founder and President, Mr Don Chen, was recognised as a Highly Commended Finalist, Private Sector Award Category, of the Governor's Multicultural Awards 2025.

This recognition celebrates organisations and leaders who demonstrate outstanding culturally responsive and inclusive practices that promote community harmony and intercultural understanding. It reflects the values that have long guided Mr Chen’s leadership and the ethos of AIHE, AIBT, AIS, Intensive English Language Centre (IELC), and the Adelaide Research Institute - all part of AEG.

For many years, Mr Chen has championed education as a bridge between cultures, creating opportunities for students from around the world to study, connect, and build their futures in South Australia. Through the AEG education ecosystem, his vision continues to bring people, ideas, and communities together.

This honour recognises not only Mr Chen’s leadership but also the diverse and vibrant community that makes our institutions what they are.

Congratulations, Mr Chen. Your commitment to multicultural understanding and global education continues to inspire us all.

Study in Two of the World's Best Cities

Melbourne has just been recognised as the #1 Best City in the World by TimeOut Worldwide (2026), while Adelaide has been ranked #29 globally on the same list. Two outstanding cities. One education ecosystem.

AIS of the AEG is located in the heart of Adelaide, while our AIHE and AIBT students have the opportunity to study in both of these globally recognised destinations through our campuses in Melbourne and Adelaide.

Melbourne continues to lead internationally not only as the world’s top city in the TimeOut ranking, but also as the #1 Most Liveable City in Australia and #4 in the world (Global Liveability Index, 2025), and one of the best student cities globally (QS Best Student Cities, 2025). It is also widely recognised as one of the friendliest cities in the world.

Adelaide offers an equally compelling student experience. Ranked #29 Most Liveable City in the World (Global Liveability Index, 2025) and the #1 Happiest City in Australia (Institute for Quality of Life, 2025), Adelaide is also celebrated for its beauty, having been recognised as the #1 Most Beautiful City in the World by Architectural Digest (2024).

Whether students choose Adelaide or Melbourne, they will be living and learning in cities that consistently rank among the world’s best for quality of life, education, culture, and opportunity.

Strengthening Eastern Visayas Connections: AEG Hosts Studying in Australia Roundtable in Tacloban

AEG hosted a Roundtable Information Session on Studying in Australia during our visit to Eastern Visayas, Philippines on 28 March at the Summit Hotel Tacloban. In partnership with Saint Paul School of Professional Studies, St Peter's College of Ormoc, Leyte Normal University, St. Therese Educational Foundation of Tacloban, and ACLC College of Tacloban, the session brought together students, parents, and education partners to explore international education opportunities. The program featured welcome remarks and presentations on internationalisation strategies from partner institutions.

The session also included presentations on the AEG advantage, AIHE as the business school of choice in Australia, English language pathways, and the value of international education, followed by an engaging Q&A discussion with participants. The event provided valuable insights into admission requirements, academic programs, and student life in Adelaide and Melbourne, while strengthening partnerships and supporting aspiring students from the region. We extend our sincere thanks to our partners and attendees for their warm welcome and meaningful engagement.

Philippines' Education Agents

AEG’s AIHE and AIBT were delighted to welcome our valued education agents from the Philippines during their recent Adelaide campus visit. We are grateful for the time they took to connect with our team, learn more about our programs, and strengthen our partnership. We look forward to continuing these conversations and hope to welcome them to our Melbourne campus soon.

StudyAdelaide Access Adelaide Exhibition

AEG was pleased to participate in the StudyAdelaide Access Adelaide Exhibition on 16 March, with strong representation from AIHE, AIBT, and AIS.

The event provided a valuable platform to engage with our agent partners, strengthen relationships, and explore new opportunities for collaboration. Through our integrated AEG ecosystem, we showcased clear student pathways from secondary education to vocational training and higher education, supporting strong recruitment outcomes and long-term student success.

We thank StudyAdelaide for facilitating this important platform for engagement and partnership.

WATCH THE VIDEO

IDP Global Education Fairs across Cambodia

AEG and True Visions joined the IDP Global Education Fairs across Cambodia on 14 and 15 March 2026, engaging with prospective students, parents, and education partners exploring study opportunities in Australia.

From Phnom Penh at Diamond Island (Koh Pich) to Siem Reap at Sokha Siem Reap Angkor, our team connected with aspiring students, showcasing pathways across AIHE, AIBT, AIS, and the Intensive English Language Centre, and providing guidance to support their international education journey.

We were also pleased to have our Cambodia Specialist, Mr Immanuel Yan, spoke at the panel discussion on “Pathways to World-Class Education in Australia,” where he shared valuable insights on academic programs, student life, and the unique benefits of studying in Australia.

AEG Welcomes True Vision International School Students for Adelaide Study Tour

AEG was pleased to host Year 9 and Year 10 students from True Vision International School for a study tour in Adelaide.

The program gave students a firsthand experience of Australian culture, lifestyle, and education. Alongside visits to Adelaide landmarks, including Glenelg, Hahndorf, Cleland Wildlife Park, Parliament House, and the Botanic Garden, the students also visited AIHE, AIBT, and public, government-supported universities in South Australia to learn more about study pathways and the Australian education system.

The group also took part in English immersion classes, with interactive activities and games that made learning both engaging and enjoyable.

Study tours like this help young students broaden their horizons, deepen cultural understanding, and begin imagining future study opportunities in Australia.

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Formative and Summative Assessments

The AEG was pleased to host Associate Professor Rhoda Abadia as its guest speaker for a timely session on the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Formative and Summative Assessments.

AIHE and AIBT were privileged to have Associate Professor Abadia deliver the session. She is an experienced higher education leader and academic with extensive expertise in academic leadership, curriculum development, and innovation in teaching and learning. She currently serves as Dean Academic, College of Engineering and Information Technology at Adelaide University, and has led significant initiatives in online learning transformation and curriculum innovation.

Associate Professor Abadia is also actively involved in international collaborations on AI and assessment practices, including her participation in the Digital Education Council’s AI and Assessment Working Group, where she contributes practical approaches for educators implementing AI responsibly in assessment design.

The session explored how educators can thoughtfully integrate AI into assessment while maintaining academic integrity and supporting authentic learning. Practical strategies were shared on designing AI informed formative assessments, rethinking summative assessment in the Gen AI era, and ensuring assessment continues to measure genuine student capability.

It was encouraging to see colleagues from both our Adelaide and Melbourne campuses engaging in this important conversation. As AI continues to reshape higher education, dialogues like this help ensure institutions remain proactive, responsible, and innovative in how we support student learning.

Partnership Agreement with Nusa Widyantara, Indonesia

The AEG is excited to announce the signing of a partnership agreement with Nusa Widyantara Indonesia, reinforcing our commitment to deepening education collaboration between Indonesia and Australia. The agreement was formally signed by Mr Don Chen, President of the AEG, and Dr Dwi Yuliantoro of Nusa Widyantara Indonesia. This partnership reflects a shared vision to expand opportunities for students and strengthen cross border collaboration.

Through this partnership, we look forward to advancing initiatives across the AEG ecosystem, including the AIHE, AIBT, and AIS. Together, we aim to support student pathways, mobility, and transnational education initiatives that create meaningful global learning experiences.

Partnerships like this play an important role in strengthening people to people connections and fostering long term cooperation between Indonesia and Australia through education.

SA Hainan Association (SAHA)

Lunar New Year Celebration

The AEG was delighted to join the Lunar New Year celebration hosted by the SA Hainan Association (SAHA).

We are especially proud that our Founder and President, Don Chen, is also the Founder of SAHA, reflecting the close ties between community leadership and educational stewardship.

As shared by Hon. Jing Lee, MLC, trailblazer for multicultural representation in South Australia, the Hainanese community is globally recognised for its contributions to the culinary and hospitality world. The Hainanese diaspora numbers around six million worldwide, with strong communities throughout Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Cambodia, and more than ten million people in Hainan province itself. In South Australia, while small in number, the Hainanese community strongly contributes across healthcare, education, hospitality, and the broader community sector.

Thank you to SAHA President Cathy Chong AM and the Committee for hosting a wonderful luncheon to welcome the Year of the Fire Horse. May the year ahead bring energy, courage, and shared prosperity to all.

AEG Signs MOU with Polytechnic University of the Philippines

AEG is delighted to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), reinforcing our shared commitment to expanding international education opportunities and strengthening academic collaboration. Founded in 1904 as the Manila Business School and granted state university status in 1978, PUP is one of the Philippines’ most established public research universities, with its main campus in Santa Mesa, Manila.

With more than 20 campuses across Central Luzon, Southern Luzon, Metro Manila, and newly approved campuses in NCR and the Visayas, and over 80,000 students, PUP is considered the largest state university in the Philippines by student population. Through this MOU, AEG and PUP will explore education pathways, academic collaboration, and student mobility opportunities across the AEG ecosystem.

AEG Signs Agreement of Cooperation with Arellano University

AEG is proud to announce the signing of an Agreement of Cooperation with Arellano University, a private, coeducational, and non-sectarian institution in the Philippines founded in 1938. With seven campuses across Metro Manila and a wide range of academic programs, including business, nursing, and its well-known law school, Arellano University has a long-standing commitment to accessible, quality education and developing future professionals.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding student pathways, academic collaboration, and global engagement. This collaboration creates opportunities for Filipino students to transition to AIHE and explore pathways across our institutions, supported by strong pastoral care and a welcoming community in both our Adelaide and Melbourne city campuses.

AEG Signs Agreement of Cooperation with Leyte Normal University

AEG has formalised its partnership with Leyte Normal University (LNU) through the signing of an Agreement of Cooperation, strengthening academic collaboration and creating new pathways for students and faculty. Established in 1921 as the Provincial Normal School, Leyte Normal University has grown through decades of transformation, becoming a degree-granting institution in 1952, a state college in 1976, and ultimately achieving university status in 1995. This rich history reflects LNU’s long-standing commitment to education, teacher training, and academic excellence in the Philippines.

Today, LNU continues to uphold its reputation as a premier institution, with twenty accredited programs across various levels. Through this Agreement of Cooperation, AEG and LNU look forward to exploring academic collaborations, student pathways, and shared initiatives that support global learning opportunities.

AEG Signs MOU with Royal University

of Phnom Penh

AEG signed a new partnership with the Royal University of Phnom Penh (RUPP) through an MOU, strengthening collaboration and creating new opportunities for students and academic engagement between Cambodia and Australia. Established in 1960, RUPP is Cambodia’s largest national research university, located in the capital city and serving around 30,000 students across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Through this partnership, AEG and the RUPP will explore academic collaboration, student pathways, and shared initiatives that support international education and broaden global opportunities for students across both institutions.

AIHE News

Study Period 2 Application

Applications for Study Period 2 2026, commencing July 2026, are now open. Apply now and secure your place to begin your academic journey with AIHE.

APPLY NOW

Study Period 1 Orientation

It was wonderful to see our campuses in Adelaide and Melbourne come alive as we welcomed students for Orientation at the AIHE. Orientation is always a special moment in the academic calendar. It marks the beginning of a new chapter for many students. During the sessions, students were introduced to the academic environment at AIHE, met members of our teaching and professional staff, and learned about the support services available to help them succeed. Just as importantly, it was an opportunity for students to begin building friendships and connections that will shape their university experience.

Many thanks to our guests, Mr Mustafa Kadir from Visgrow Internships, Ashmitha Nagasundaram and Kirithikka from StudyAdelaide, Ken and Wendy from South Australia Police, and Study Melbourne, who generously shared their time with our new students.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Risk Management Approach

The AIHE recently conducted a focused workshop with its Executive Committee to interrogate its Risk Registers, ensuring genuine institutional ownership across both academic and corporate domains. The exercise clarified accountability and reinforced a culture where risk is understood, owned, and actively managed by leaders. Embedding this discipline strengthens governance, builds regulator confidence, and supports sustainable growth with clarity and purpose.

Student Testimonials

At AIHE, every student has a story—and these ones we are proud to share.

CPA Australia Information Session

We were proud to host the CPA Australia Information Session at AIHE's Melbourne campus.

Our students had the opportunity to connect with industry, explore the CPA pathway, and gain practical insights into building careers in Australia and beyond. From understanding the CPA program to learning how to strengthen employability, the session was packed with value.

A big thank you to our guest speaker, Kim Hwang FCPA, for sharing her inspiring journey and empowering our students with real-world advice and career strategies.

Strengthening Connections with Ascensus Institute in Singapore

AIHE connected with Ascensus Institute in Singapore as part of our ongoing commitment to strengthening collaboration and supporting student pathways to Australia.

During the visit, we engaged with Ascensus Institute leadership to further enhance our partnership and explore expanded opportunities for student progression. We also had the opportunity to meet with students, sharing information about admission requirements and guiding them through the transition to AIHE.

These conversations allowed us to support prospective students directly, answer their questions, and provide clarity on the next steps in their academic journey. It was encouraging to see the strong interest from students eager to continue their studies in Australia.

AIHE FEE SCHEDULE 2026

AIHE PROSPECTUS

AIBT News

True Visions International School Cambodia Visit

AIBT was proud to host students from TrueVisions International School Cambodia at our Adelaide campus for an engaging and insightful visit.

Students took part in interactive sessions, connected with our trainers, and explored what studying in Australia is all about. Their enthusiasm and curiosity made the experience truly memorable.

Each student received a Certificate of Attendance—marking a meaningful step toward their future. We loved having you here and look forward to welcoming you again!

VET for Schools Completion Rate 2025

AIBT proudly celebrates the success of its 2025 VET for School program, marked by strong completion rates and outstanding student outcomes.

These results reflect AIBT’s commitment to delivering high-quality training, providing dedicated student support, and fostering a future-focused learning environment. Through a combination of practical education and industry-relevant skills, students are empowered to confidently take the next step in their academic and career journeys.

The 2025 achievements stand as a testament to the hard work of both students and educators, reinforcing AIBT’s mission to create real opportunities and lasting success for every learner.

Building Pathways: AIBT and Aldinga Payinthi College Collaboration

The AIBT is proud to partner with Aldinga Payinthi College in supporting students through the VET for School Students program.

Through this collaboration, students are actively engaging in their ICT pathway, gaining practical skills and valuable industry knowledge while still completing their secondary education. The program provides a strong foundation for future careers, allowing students to explore their interests and build confidence in a real-world learning environment.

AIBT remains committed to guiding these learners throughout their VET journey and looks forward to celebrating their growth and achievements in the years ahead.

Heathfield High School Careers Expo

The AIBT recently visited Heathfield High School for their 2026 Careers Expo, connecting with students from Years 7 to 12 to discuss future career pathways through VET.

Students learned about our course offerings, including:

• Certificate III in Information Technology (with government subsidy available for eligible students)

• NEW Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business

AIBT also shared information about the upcoming April Fast Track intake, created exclusively for Year 12 students ready to take the next step in their education and career journey.

The expo provided a valuable opportunity to engage with students as they explored their interests and future goals. AIBT extends its thanks to Heathfield High School for the warm welcome and looks forward to continuing to support students in shaping their pathways ahead.

AIBT PROSPECTUS

AIS News

Signing Agreement on Cooperation in Organising a Sino-Australia High School Program between Guangzhou Weiming School, Guangdong, China, and AIS, Australia

We are pleased to announce the signing of the Agreement on Cooperation in Organising a Sino-Australia High School Program between Guangzhou Weiming School, Guangdong, China and AIS, Australia.

This collaboration introduces the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) curriculum through AIS, providing students with access to a globally recognised qualification, alongside contemporary teaching approaches and international learning pathways.

Beyond academics, the program is anchored in a meaningful cultivation goal: to develop modern learners who are grounded in their cultural identity while embracing a global perspective. It reflects a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and cross-cultural understanding.

We were honoured to have the following representatives present at the signing:

Mr Don Chen, AEG President

Mr Steve Bousfield, AIS Principal

Mr Liwei Wang, Principal, International Department, Guangzhou Weiming School

Ms Ying Wang, Deputy Principal

Mr Matt Clarke, Business Development Manager, SACE International

Mr Jason Bobis, Educational Consultant, SACE Board

This partnership further strengthens the AEG ecosystem, creating seamless pathways from secondary education through to higher education and beyond.

True Visions Adelaide Campus Launches in Partnership with AIS, Strengthening Australia–Cambodia Education Ties

The AEG was pleased to celebrate the launch of the True Visions Adelaide Campus Partnership with the AIS, marking an important step in strengthening education collaboration between Australia and Cambodia.

We were honoured to welcome His Excellency Dr Kim Sethany, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport of Cambodia, together with Dr Seng Bona, Chairman and Founder of True Visions International School, and Hon. Jing Lee, MLC, Member of the South Australian Legislative Council, along with many distinguished guests from the education and government sectors.

This partnership represents more than a traditional recruitment relationship. Since our first introduction in 2023, the collaboration has grown through reciprocal visits and leadership dialogue into a genuine bilateral institutional alliance.

It also strengthens the AEG ecosystem by connecting True Visions International School with our integrated institutions - AIS, AIBT, and AIHE, the Adelaide Research Institute, and the Intensive English Language Centre - creating clearer pathways for students from school through vocational training, higher education, research, and English language programs.

The partnership also carries diplomatic and regional significance, strengthening education ties between Cambodia and Australia while opening new opportunities for institutional growth and collaboration across Southeast Asia.

Most importantly, this initiative is built on leadership trust and a shared commitment to expanding opportunities for students across borders.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Job Shop Training

Students from AIS recently attended the Job Shop Training event, delivered by Timemakers trainers Elena Muller GAICD, George Gouzounis, and Luca Pettinato in partnership with StudyAdelaide.

Designed for international students under 18, the session covered key topics such as workers’ rights, accessing the Fair Work Ombudsman, and building strong resumes. Students gained practical skills and confidence to pursue part-time or casual work while studying in Adelaide.

Attendees shared positive feedback, highlighting the valuable insights and skills that will support their employment goals this year.

Adelaide Secondary Youth Leadership Conference 2026

Three of our students, two Year 12 students and one Year 11 student, were selected to attend the Adelaide Secondary Youth Leadership Conference 2026 at the Adelaide Convention Centre.

The conference explored key themes including defining leadership, communicating as a leader, creating change, and school-based leadership.

“From this experience, I learned that youth leadership is not just about having a title. It’s about actions, attitude, and how we treat others. Leadership means supporting people, communicating clearly, and stepping up when needed.” – Janith, Year 11

The day also included entertaining events such as music, dancing, and fun games that encouraged teamwork and helped everyone feel more connected.

Our students came away inspired and are now thinking about how they can bring leadership initiatives back to school.

AIS FEE SCHEDULE 2026

AIS PROSPECTUS

Partnerships and Events

Expert Education Adelaide, Australia

Yes Education, Philippines

Expert Education and Visa Services - Global Quest Education Beyond Borders, Philippines

IDP Education Ltd. - Makati, Philippines

APG - Makati, Philippines

IDP Education Ltd. - Cebu, Philippines

KOKOS International - Cebu, Philippines

AMS Global - Cebu, Philippines

AECC - Cebu, Philippines

Infinity Migration Services, Philippines

NIEC - Jakarta, Indonesia

Aspectama - Jakarta, Indonesia

Cakrawala University - Jakarta, Indonesia

Book Recommendation of the Month

Adelaide Education Group: ABN 29 649 618 762

Adelaide Institute of Business and Technology | Adelaide International School CRICOS Provider Code: 03133G | Registered Training Organisation Code: 40312 | School Number: 398 | ABN: 85 132 879 086

Adelaide Institute of Higher Education TEQSA Provider Number: PRV14326
TEQSA Provider Category: Institute of Higher Education | CRICOS Provider Code: 03763K | ABN: 54 618 241 802

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