This landmark agreement will further strenghthen the solid relationship between Taiwan and Queensland.

It will offer Queensland graduate teachers the once in a lifetime chance to gain cultural and teaching practice oversea, while Taiwan students undertaking a master’s degree in teaching Chinese as a second language will be invited to work on a volunteer basis assisting Mandarin teachers in Queensland schools.

The Taiwan master’s degree students will be able to totally immerse themselves in Queensland schools and enjoy the Queensland lifestyle for up to six months.

Queensland’s Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek thanked Taiwan for the interest in Queensland’s education system and warmly welcomed Taiwanese student teachers to teach in Queensland schools. He said the partnership would enhance Queensland’s multicultural school community.

“International teachers and students are a very important part of Queensland’s education story. Queensland already attracts more than 20 per cent of Australia’s international school student numbers. During the last year, international enrolments at Queensland state schools have increased by 2.3 per cent. We recognise the role of international programs like this can play in further developing the strong friendships between our great countries” said Mr Langbroek.

This MOU takes effect immediately and will be effective till 31 December 2015 (approximately three years).