Ara celebrates industry role in shaping future business programmes

_{Heather McEwan addresses the industry group visiting Ara's Visions restaurant} 

Ara Institute of Canterbury’s Business team has closed out the year by celebrating a milestone with industry partners: the near completion of a major programme redevelopment.

The event, held at the end of each semester, is Ara’s way of thanking those who support business students through work-integrated learning, research projects, and guest speaking in classes.

This time, the gathering was extended to include contributors to recent programme reviews, giving them an update and inviting their views on the changes made from their valuable feedback.

Amanda Lawson, Industry Placement Coordinator, said: “These events are about recognising the incredible support our partners provide to students - through placements, projects, and sharing their expertise in the classroom.

“Extending this event to include those who helped with the review was a natural step, because most have supported students in some way. It was a great opportunity to close the loop and show how their feedback has shaped the proposed changes.”

The rigorous review of the Bachelor of Applied Management and Graduate Diploma in Applied Management has taken place over recent months – a process that happens every five years.

It ensures Ara’s qualifications remain relevant and deliver the skills employers need.

Heather McEwan, co-lead of Business, said industry input had been invaluable - with feedback gathered through stakeholder events, focus groups, and surveys. 

“Following this final check with our partners we will submit the changes to NZQA for approval, with delivery of the revised programmes set to begin in July 2026,” McEwan said.

She said staying closely connected with Ara’s broad range of industry partners was vital.

“Business is everywhere – the skills our graduates offer are needed far and wide. Maintaining strong and broad relationships ensures we provide current, practical skills with real-world application.”

_{Student rep Christian Paduganao says the changes ensure Ara's point of difference remains central to delivery.}

The student voice also played a role in the review. Christian Paduganao, Bachelor of Accounting graduate and outgoing Student Council Chair, highlighted Ara’s collaborative learning environment.

“The smaller cohorts and personal attention make Ara stand out. The planned refinements lean into that strength,” he said.

The event also acknowledged a busy year for the team, including the launch of the Master of Applied Management suite in October.  Applications are open for the next cohorts due to start in February.

Ara will now move forward in finalising the business programme reviews for NZQA approval early in the new year, ensuring the degree and post graduate diploma - which cover one of the broadest ranges of business skills in New Zealand - continue to give graduates the flexibility to build careers across multiple industries and roles.