Htin’s Journey from International Student to Global Health Leader in New Zealand

Originally from Myanmar, Htin arrived in New Zealand in 2001 to begin his Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Otago. Since then, he has built an impressive research career focused on addressing one of the world’s oldest and deadliest infectious diseases. 

It was during a visit home while studying that a personal experience gave his education new purpose. “I met a TB patient and realised that even though he was receiving treatment, it might not be enough to save him. That moment gave me a sense of direction — I knew that I had found my calling.” 

With an estimated 10 million TB cases and 1.5 million deaths each year globally, Htin was determined to contribute to the solution. “Every minute, three people somewhere in the world die of TB,” he explains. “If I can help reduce that to one person every minute, then I know I’ve made a real difference.” 

While New Zealand has relatively low numbers of TB cases — around 300 each year — Māori and Pasifika communities are disproportionately affected. Htin’s research seeks to address these health inequities by working closely with clinicians, community leaders, and researchers to find more targeted, culturally responsive interventions. 

Htin holds a BSc (Hons) in Genetics and a PhD in Microbiology, both from the University of Otago. Now a Rutherford Discovery Fellow and Associate Dean Pacific Research, he continues to investigate bacterial variants of TB that are unique to Māori and Pasifika populations. “The big challenge now is to understand why these variants are impacting certain communities and how we can respond more effectively.” 

From his early days as a student living at Cumberland College to becoming a leading figure in public health research, Htin credits New Zealand’s education system and supportive academic environment for shaping his journey. 

The fellowships and academic support Htin received along the way were instrumental. He was awarded the Sir Charles Hercus Health Research Fellowship by the New Zealand Health Research Council in 2017, followed by his current Rutherford Discovery Fellowship from the Royal Society of New Zealand Te Apārangi. 

Having lived in New Zealand for more than half his life, Htin now calls it his home. He and his wife Khine, also from Myanmar, are raising their young son Oakgar in Dunedin. “He’s a real Kiwi kid,” Htin smiles. 

His message to students considering New Zealand for their education is simple: “Follow your heart. And if you don’t know yet what you want to do — don’t be afraid to find out.” 

Htin’s story is just one example of how international students can transform their lives and the lives of others through education in New Zealand. Whether you’re interested in science, health, community work, or global change, your New Zealand qualification will open opportunities for you.