A select number of students from Whitecliffe’s Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design (BSFD) programme are preparing to embark on an inspiring international journey to India as recipients of the Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia. This opportunity will see them collaborate with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), one of India’s leading design institutions, to deepen their knowledge of sustainable textiles and cross-cultural design practices.
The programme is part of the final round of the Prime Minister’s Scholarships, which have supported thousands of New Zealand learners to build global connections and cultural understanding since 2013.
During this visit our students will explore the rich heritage of India by visiting different areas including West Bengal and northern India to engage in India’s rich craft traditions and globally recognised sustainable design practices. Students will learn cultural techniques from local artisans and craftspeople such as dyeing, embroidery and weaving.
In collaboration with NIFT, the students will learn the contemporary uses of khadi (a traditional fabric handwoven from cotton, silk, or wool). Known for its versatility, khadi has become an emblem of sustainable and ethical fashion production.
Students will have the chance to design and develop their own pieces using this iconic material, gaining firsthand insight into its cultural significance and modern applications in fashion.
Whitecliffe’s Head of Fashion and Sustainability, Michelle Wetherell, says:
“This experience is about much more than technical learning. It’s about developing cultural fluency, expanding creative horizons, and building the confidence to engage as a designer in an ethical way that puts people and planet first.”
The scholarship reflects Whitecliffe’s commitment to nurturing graduates who are both creatively ambitious and socially conscious. By working alongside peers, local artisans and faculty at NIFT, students will have opportunities to exchange ideas, challenge their thinking, and explore new approaches to sustainable design.
The Prime Minister’s Scholarships for Asia and Latin America were created to strengthen New Zealand’s connections with key regions by supporting educational exchange. In this final round, 25 group programmes have been awarded funding across diverse fields including fashion, technology, education, and social enterprise.
Whitecliffe is proud to have been selected among other leading institutions, reflecting our dedication to preparing students for meaningful careers with a global perspective.
