nib says it has provided hundreds of international students at the University of Newcastle with health and hygiene care packages during the pandemic.
The company said the packages include locally purchased hand wash and sanitiser as well as other healthcare necessities and mental health resources.
According to the University’s senior deputy vice-chancellor and vice-president of global engagement and partnerships, Professor Kevin Hall, “Moving to a new place can be an overwhelming experience for anyone, so we recognise the additional stress on those students who may be away from support networks in a different country during a pandemic.
“Our international students make a huge contribution to our University and we’re working hard to ensure they feel connected during this time. This thoughtful gesture will help keep our students safe and remind them that other leaders in our community are also thinking of them and their welfare.”
Professor Hall added that nib has supported University of Newcastle students for over a decade, including by providing work-integrated learning opportunities and partnering on PhD programs.
“One of the truly inspiring outcomes as a result of this period is the outpouring of support from our partners, who have been eager to get involved in the University’s efforts. Our strong relationship with nib meant they were eager to help – we’re incredibly grateful for their support.”
nib Managing Director, Mark Fitzgibbon, said the care packages are a small contribution to support the ongoing health and hygiene of students experiencing hardship during this difficult time.
“Now more than ever it’s important that the community keep themselves safe and healthy, and given our strong relationship with the University we’re fortunate to be in a position to provide a helping hand in keeping students healthy and connected at this time,” he said.