Charles Sturt University's expertise in exporting education was recognised when it was announced as runner-up in the education category of the Premier's NSW Exporter of the Year Awards at a gala dinner at Darling Harbour last night (Wednesday 25 October).

CSU exports both degree and postgraduate programs to international students studying in Australia or off-shore in their home countries. With majors markets in Malaysia, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Canada, India, UK and Europe, CSU now has 24.5 per cent of all international students enrolled in Australian universities studying off campus via distance education.

The University has 5 444 international students enrolled from over 48 countries, an overall increase of 17 per cent between 1999 and 2000. Off-shore campus enrolments increased by a massive 95 per cent in the last twelve months.

Executive Director of Communications and International Relations for CSU, Mr Ken Ball, said he was very pleased with the result and the competitive standing of the University's export activities.

"The University has worked hard to establish a reputation as a quality exporter in higher education. Our status as a leading distance education provider as well as our flexibility in course delivery, and industry links has created high demand for our courses overseas putting CSU in a competitive position in the global education market," Mr Ball said.

The 2000 Premier's Exporter of the Year Awards has ten categories including overall winner and six special state awards. This year the Awards competition attracted 57 entries. Guest of honour at the Awards dinner was the Hon Sandra Norrie, Minister for Small Business and Minister for Tourism in NSW.

CSU was runner-up to the University of New South Wales which has a long history in international education in Australia.