Eighteen Griffith University students are preparing to undertake professional internships in Japan and South Korea through the 2026 Griffith Asia Business Internship (GABI) program.
Led by Dr Andrea Haefner from the Griffith Asia Institute (GAI), GABI provides undergraduate and postgraduate students with international work-integrated learning opportunities in Tokyo and Seoul. The program aims to strengthen students’ employability, intercultural communication and Asia capabilities while building connections between Australia and its regional neighbours.
As part of their preparation, students recently completed the 2026 Asia Ready Program, delivered through in-person workshops at Griffith’s Gold Coast and Nathan campuses.
The workshops explored the economic and strategic importance of Asia to Australia, alongside practical considerations for working overseas. Students took part in interactive sessions covering intercultural communication, workplace expectations, health, safety and wellbeing, and scenarios addressing potential challenges during their internships.
Country-specific briefings introduced students to Japanese and Korean business cultures, while former GABI participants shared their experiences and advice on navigating professional environments abroad.
Student feedback highlighted the value of the preparation and support provided by the GABI team, with one student commenting:
“I’m so excited because I am well-prepared because of all the support that the GABI team provided to me. Thank you for your support.”
Another reflected on the broader learning opportunities offered by the program:
“The GABI program has been an overall great experience so far where I have learnt and have realised I will learn much more than I initially thought. This is a great program offered by Griffith.”
Dr Haefner, Academic Lead of GABI, said the program offered more than professional experience, helping students develop the knowledge and relationships needed to engage with the region.
“GABI goes beyond professional experience by fostering lasting connections, mutual understanding and collaboration between Australia and its Asian neighbours, while developing the Asia capability central to the Australian Government’s regional engagement priorities.”
Following the Asia Ready Program, students will take part in further language, cultural and orientation activities in Japan and South Korea before commencing their internships with host organisations in November.
Now in its ninth year, GABI has supported more than 185 students since 2019, providing opportunities to gain international workplace experience and develop the skills and cultural understanding needed to work across the region.
Find out more about the Griffith Asia Business Internship program.
