Source: Eastern Institute of Technology
22 seconds ago
Two international students at EIT’s Auckland campus have gained an inside look at New Zealand’s tech sector through internships at cybersecurity firm Cianaa Technologies.
Master of Information Technology students Jing Su, from Tianjin, China, and Ayesh Rodrigo, from Sri Lanka, who completed their degree this year, recently undertook internships at the Auckland-based company.
Their three-month placements at Cianaa focused on cybersecurity standards and compliance and client on-site audits, giving them direct exposure to how New Zealand businesses operate.
EIT Master of IT graduates Jing Su and Ayesh Rodrigo recently completed internships at Auckland-based cybersecurity firm Cianaa Technologies.
The company specialises in quality assessment, compliance and cybersecurity and is a recognised government supplier under the New Zealand Information Security Manual.
For Jing, who moved to Auckland in September 2023, the internship was a chance to put her new knowledge into practice. Formerly an in-vehicle infotainment embedded software engineer and project manager at Panasonic in China, she said the placement broadened her skills.
“We found out why certain questions get asked, observed teams close-up in a live situation, and learned a lot about risk management frameworks in a New Zealand context. It was invaluable to interact directly with Cianaa’s clients and meet new challenges in a real-world business environment.”
Jing said her studies at EIT have given her a balance of academic and practical skills, with highlights including the cybersecurity and cloud computing courses, as well as her involvement in the Mentor Programme.
“I chose to study at EIT because it offers a welcoming and diverse learning environment, and I really value the way Māori culture is integrated into education here.”
She also works part-time as a robotics teacher at Kidwe Lab, helping young students pursue their own dreams of becoming engineers.
Ayesh, 33, who arrived in New Zealand in early 2023 after long dreaming of the country through films like The Lord of the Rings.
After more than a decade working in banking and software engineering in Sri Lanka, he said it was EIT’s affordability, reputation among international students, and strong industry focus that convinced him to enrol.
“As an international student, it’s incredibly challenging to find opportunities in fields like IT. This internship gave me exposure to companies I one day wish to work for. Although I’m not directly from a cybersecurity background, it’s teaching me practical aspects of the industry and helping me understand how IT looks in New Zealand.”
He said the support of EIT lecturers made the difference. “I personally got an internship with a recommendation from lecturers at EIT. After trying many times on my own, I understood it’s very hard to get a job without a recommendation here. I was fortunate to get this opportunity during my studies, and I’m really grateful for that.”
Balancing the internship alongside family commitments, part-time work and final research was demanding, but he said the experience was invaluable.
“I very much appreciate that Cianaa provided a unique experience for me and expressed confidence in us to successfully participate and contribute to successful business outcomes.”
Lecturer Akbar Hossain, who facilitated the placements, said Cianaa praised both students for their professionalism and work ethic and indicated interest in hosting more interns.
Both students say the internships have been an essential connector between their studies and career ambitions.
Jing hopes to combine her background in embedded systems with her new skills in cloud and cybersecurity, while Ayesh is focused on starting his IT career in New Zealand.
“These experiences not only align us with our career expectations but also make our time in New Zealand more meaningful,” Ayesh said.
EIT Head of School of Computing, Geoffrey Mather, said: “Student placements are a win for everyone”.
“Ākonga step confidently into the real world, growing their skills and shaping their future. Valued industry partners gain fresh energy, new ideas, and the chance to guide tomorrow’s talent. Together, we create pathways where learning and innovation thrive.”
