Tuesday, November 12, 2024

Consultation begins on vocational education reform

The Government has begun its consultation on proposed reforms for New Zealand’s vocational education and training system.

Tertiary Education and Skills Minister, Penny Simmonds said the previous government’s Te Pūkenga “mega-merger” had been “an abject disaster”.

“Not only is it a financial mess, drowning in debt of over $250 million while carrying a bloated, centralised bureaucracy, but it has failed spectacularly in its aim to provide quality, relevant learning to the regions,” Ms Simmonds says.

“New Zealand needs a strong vocational education and training system with genuine regional control to ensure our people, industries, and communities can thrive. One that provides skills, knowledge and career pathways for learners into industries and professions that are vital to the economic prosperity of New Zealand.

“Over the next six weeks, I’m encouraging New Zealanders to have their say about the Government’s proposed reforms, and what they want from their local polytechnics and industry training organisations.

“It’s important that we hear a range of different perspectives. Our communities and economy need us to get this right,” she said.

Feedback is being sought on three parts of the system:

•    A redesigned Institute of Technology and Polytechnic network that retains access to tertiary training in our regions, through a combination of stand-alone and federated ITPs;
•    Options for an industry-led system for standards-setting and industry training;
•    Changes to vocational education funding from 2026 to better support the reformed system.

“The damage done in the past four years is significant and there is a lot of work ahead. We need to restore our polytechnics to their rightful place as anchors of learning opportunities for individuals, and as a regional development tool for communities and industries. Our industry training must be driven by, and for, industry.”

“I look forward to people’s feedback and thoughts on the proposals which will help inform policy and the design of a more financially sustainable sector that better meets the needs of employers, employees, and communities,” Ms Simmonds says.

Find out more information and make your submission by 12 September 2024 at: consultation.education.govt.nz.

Latest Articles