The Prime Minister’s Scholarship to Asia (PMSA), supported by Education New Zealand (ENZ), continues to open meaningful pathways for cultural exchange, global learning and creative collaboration.
In 2026, Whitecliffe, in partnership with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), India, is taking ten Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design Year 2 students beyond the classroom and into the heart of India’s craft traditions.
Guided by Whitecliffe Lecturer Harita Kapur, Assistant Professor Surbhi Ahuja, and Dr Sudha Dhingra, Professor of Textiles at NIFT Delhi, the students will take part in a six-week immersive craft and cultural education experience beginning 20 June 2026.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity for our students to learn beyond the classroom and engage directly with India’s rich craft, textile and design traditions.
Through the Prime Minister’s Scholarship to Asia, and in partnership with the National Institute of Fashion Technology, our students will experience firsthand how traditional craft practices embody deep knowledge of sustainability, identity, community, and resilience.
At Whitecliffe, we value international partnerships that create meaningful cultural exchange and open new ways of thinking for our students.
Our partnership with NIFT reflects a shared commitment to creative education that is globally connected, socially aware and grounded in respect for people, place and material practice.
Experiences like this are transformative. Students return with new skills, broader perspectives and a deeper understanding of how design can contribute to sustainable futures, while also strengthening the creative and educational connections between Aotearoa New Zealand and India.”
Dr Fay Amaral, CEO, Whitecliffe
From the textiles of Bengal in Kolkata, Katwa and Phulia, to the artistic soul of Shantiniketan, the sacred weaving heritage of Varanasi, the vibrant craft hubs of Jaipur and the dynamic design culture of Delhi, students will engage directly with living craft ecologies that have sustained communities for generations.
Through hands-on experiences with artisan communities, cooperatives, not-for-profit organisations, designers and cultural knowledge holders, students will explore the connections between social, cultural, ecological and material practices. The journey highlights how traditional crafts are not only artistic expressions, but also vital systems of sustainability, identity and resilience.
“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome the PMSA scholars from Whitecliffe to NIFT. This ‘India Immersive Experience’ is more than a cultural tour; it is a profound academic and creative dialogue.
By opening the doors to our historic craft hubs in Kolkata, Varanasi, and Jaipur, we are giving these international students direct access to the pinnacle of Indian textile heritage and technical mastery.
At NIFT, we believe that the future of global design lies at the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation.
Witnessing these talented young minds from New Zealand engage first hand with our master artisans and designers is incredibly inspiring. This initiative not only strengthens the academic and cultural ties between our two nations but also paves the way for a new generation of cross-cultural design thinking.”
Ms Tanu Kashyap, Director General, NIFT
For the students, the PMSA India Immersive Experience offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from master craftspeople and experience traditional knowledge within its cultural context.
“This scholarship is a chance to step outside my comfort zone and experience something completely different. I’m thrilled to be part of this and learn about India’s culture, meeting new people, and seeing traditional craftsmanship up close. It’s an opportunity to learn in a way that isn’t possible in a classroom.”
Franco Jooste, Year 2, BSFD Student, Whitecliffe
The programme also offers students the opportunity to connect their sustainable fashion practice with broader conversations around material knowledge, community, place and responsible design.
“I am incredibly excited to learn, expand my knowledge, and immerse myself in the culture and food of India. This is a perfect opportunity to develop new techniques, refine my skills, craft knowledge, and grow as I learn from professionals and master craftspeople in their respective fields. I can’wait to embrace every part of this experience and make the most of this amazing opportunity!”
Nicole Sue, Year 2, BSFD Student, Whitecliffe
Alongside the academic and craft-based learning, students will experience local cuisine, rural villages, tribal culture and India’s renowned hospitality. Together, these experiences will support a deeper understanding of how design education can be enriched through cultural exchange, traditional knowledge and global creative partnerships.
