$8m earned through Student Job Search

Otago tertiary students collectively earned more than $8 million last year through Student Job Search, the organisation says.

Information it released this week showed Otago students earned $8,051,814 in 2012, a 15% increase on the 2011 figure of $6,991,091.

Research by the Otago University Students Association (OUSA) suggested there had been an increase in the number of students using Student Job Search, from 69% in 2010 to 76% last year.

OUSA president Francisco Hernandez said it was encouraging students were able to earn more money.

''We are absolutely rapt with the news that Student Job Search has helped our students earn so much more.

''With government support becoming tougher for students to gain every year, any extra money they can earn is really important,'' he said.

Student Job Search said a slowing labour market in 2012 resulted in a decrease in placements, but those who found work through the service earned 22% more on average per placement than in 2011.

Mr Hernandez said the OUSA had worked with Student Job Search to improve on-campus promotion, social media exposure and kiosks in offices to ensure students were able to access jobs easily.