Studying a Masters of Data Science at the University of New England (UNE) in regional New South Wales, Umang Uliana was hoping to secure his future here in Australia. But COVID-19 has spoiled those plans and his future in Australia is increasingly uncertain.
His part-time job as a housekeeper has disappeared and his family back in India is unable to provide financial support.
It's a familiar story for many international students in Australia, including those at regional institutions like Armidale's UNE.
The turbulence being experienced by the Higher Education sector has a significant impact on regional Australia.
Thida Chaw Hlaing and her sons Source: SBS
In 2018, the University of New England injected $318 million into the local economy. But now, as on-campus numbers fall, more than a hundred staff will lose their jobs.
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