NZIST welcomes the Government's $1.6 billion Trades and Training package announced as part of the 2020 Budget today.
“Obviously the timing and extent of the package is significant. Providing targeted free trades training and support will make a significant difference to New Zealanders and the economy as it begins on the road to economic and social recovery,” NZIST Council Chairman Murray Strong said.
“There are many people in New Zealand right now who are facing significant hardship and unemployment as a result of the social and economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and that may increase as the year progresses.
“This is an opportunity for people to reconsider their options and turn towards developing new skills. This tremendous level of support from the Government will enable them to get back into the workforce in new and exciting areas sooner. As New Zealand rethinks its economic future this provides the real prospect of beginning a new chapter for learners, businesses and families across NZ."
"Coupled with the Reform of Vocational Education, the establishment of the NZIST with our subsidiary and Transitional Industry Training Organisation networks, this is an opportunity for New Zealand, our learners and employers, to stay connected,” Mr Strong said.
“We also particularly welcome the investment to enable He Poutama Rangatahi to expand and the Māori Apprenticeships Fund which should break down some barriers experienced by young Māori to participate in vocational education and see us move towards equity for all learners in NZ.”
“NZIST is well set up to ensure the Government’s tertiary package is able to be applied cohesively and coherently across the country. We will be working with our subsidiaries and TITOs to ensure this happens in a way that works for both learners and employers,” he said.