50% decline in Indian students opting for studies in Aus

Australia today said though Indian students opting for studies there has declined by 50 per cent this year, but it is confident of "rebuilding the numbers" in the coming years.

"Statistics show a decline of around 50 per cent at the current numbers. We are confident that in the longer term, we can rebuild the numbers," Australian High Commissioner to India Peter Varghese told reporters on the sidelines of a seminar here.

"There is also reduction in number of international students coming to Australia. This is something to do with global economic environment and strengthening of the Australian Dollar," he said.

    
On attacks on Indian students in Australia, Varghese said both the countries are engaged in constructive dialogue to resolve the issue.
    
Australia has taken many steps like increasing police resources and changing legislation to give police greater powers to tackle the problem, he said.
    
He pointed out that sentences given by courts in some cases were very strong and severe. "We have arrested over 70 persons involved in attacks and they are being dealt with," he said.
    
"Majority of international students in Australia, including Indian students, have a safe, positive and enjoyable experience in the country," Varghese claimed.