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Having arrived in New Zealand from Nepal in 2019, Prastuta Bhatta’s journey to studying at NMIT began when the pandemic hit. She was just 20 when the first Covid-19 lockdown caught her off-guard in Nelson, but the experience sparked a passion for healthcare. She’s now completed two years of the three year Bachelor of Nursing degree at NMIT.
“Healthcare had my heart. I knew I wanted to study nursing. I’m glad Nelson happened to me, and I happened to Nelson,” says Prastuta.
Her passion for healthcare and her desire to give back both to New Zealand and her home country of Nepal are keeping her focused through the final year of her studies.
“Life to me is more than mere existence,” she says. “I may not be able to change everything, but I believe I can change something for someone.”
2025 is the first year the Fifeshire-Hancock Scholarship has been offered at NMIT. Peter Hancock, one of the generous donors, shared his personal experience when speaking at the 2025 NMIT Scholarship Ceremony. Peter explained that when he was a student, he would not have been able to afford to complete his final year of study if not for a scholarship.
The purpose of the Fifeshire-Hancock Scholarship is to support a deserving final year student who is likely to make a positive contribution to society. Through her extensive volunteer work, Prastuta embodies the spirit of this scholarship. She teaches English to migrants, supports mental health services and fundraises for local causes, all while studying fulltime.
Prastuta was thrilled to receive the scholarship, saying that it has provided a powerful reminder that someone believes in her and the vision she has.
“It eases financial strain and strengthens my resolve,” she says. “This scholarship uplifts not just me, but the many communities I am part of and serve.”
NMIT is proud to work alongside local community and industry partners to support our students' learning journeys.
Find out more about NMIT’s scholarship programme.
