By DIRK MULDER

What it is: Austrade‘s #InThisTogether sends messages of support to people who can’t be on campus because of COVID-19 travel restrictions, with one clear message, “we are all in this together”.

It’s intended for  Australians to show solidarity and support for those impacted, and for students caught offshore to communicate with their communities here.

Why it matters: While the headlines focus on domestic issues, such as toilet paper acquisition (or lack of) we must not forget there are many affected students still not able to resume their studies. The number will likely grow as other countries are added to travel restriction lists. Making these students feel connected to Australia and their study institution(s) is important for both their personal wellbeing, their study journey and their desire to reconnect in person when the current situation resolves.

Education institutions, agents, sector organisations and individuals alike can participate using the hashtag #InThisTogether on social media posts.

Dirk Mulder is CMM’s international education correspondent.