Asanka Thewara Hannadige has been studying the Bachelor of Applied Aquaculture degree course at NMIT (Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE) in Australia since the 2008 academic year. After beginning studies on fisheries and marine science at the National Institute of Fisheries and Nautical Engineering in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Asanka developed a strong desire to go abroad to study, and to specialize more in the exciting field of Aquaculture.

Knowing that Aquaculture was popular in Sri Lanka because of the richness of inland water bodies and ground water resources that are available, Asanka also realized that the common practice of pond culture had its limitations. With future developments, such as the more efficient use of land and water resources and improved technology such as highly intensive recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) on the horizon, Asanka wanted to be familiar with the latest and greatest technology to allow him to make a solid contribution to the industry.

Now at the halfway point of the course, Asanka is thrilled with where he is heading. "I am just so happy that my dream is becoming a reality", he says. He selected Australia as he heard that it was one of the best countries in terms of gaining quality higher education. His scouring of the Internet and the assistance of student services led him towards considering a variety of options, but one pathway in particular really stood out.

"I believe that a subject like aquaculture is a practical area dealing with living organisms. Universities have a formal structure for teaching, and generally feature large numbers of students in lecture rooms with somewhat limited opportunities for interaction, and a relatively small number of practical sessions. I found it difficult as an undergraduate student to learn in such an environment, and I wanted a change. When I heard about the program at NMIT, it immediately got my attention."

Knowing that TAFE colleges (Technical and Further Education; similar to the Technical Colleges in Sri Lanka) are more closely aligned with industry and aim specifically to provide trained personnel, Asanka had more faith in the idea of vocational degrees at TAFE than in the university system. "I wanted to have a degree qualification, but wanted to have a wide variety of skills and a good balance of knowledge in both theoretical and practical areas. That is my dream".

A typical day at NMIT involves a half-day theory class in the morning and a practical class in the afternoon that allows the students to develop and implement the ideas that they picked up from the morning session. "This keeps the topics interesting and makes it much easier to learn what can be challenging and complex subject areas. We have the opportunity to explore any issues and problems with what we have been learning, and ultimately are more able to make an impact when we do finally gain employment in the industry".

For more information relating to this course, please see: http://www.nmit.vic.edu.au/courses/bachelor_of_applied_aquaculture
For information on other courses offered at NMIT, please see: http://www.nmit.vic.edu.au/international_courses and for any enquiries email international@nmit.vic.edu.au