May 19, 2016 at 04:30 pm
Today's announcement that 5,500 more apprentices will be supported over the next four years is a welcome and necessary boost, says the Industry Training Federation.
Minister Steven Joyce announced today that $14.4 million will be spent over the next four years.
“We’re very pleased the government has listened to the sector and recognised this growing demand.” says ITF Chief Executive Josh Williams.
It is also a positive acknowledgement of the role of employers as a critical part of the tertiary sector, delivering relevant skills and qualifications to working people.
The Minister has also been as good as his word: during the recession he promised that a reversal of economic fortunes would trigger further inverstment in industry training and apprenticeships.
"In good times and bad, we need to train our people, so we aren't always playing catch-up on skills." Mr Williams says.
Industry Training Organisations (ITOs) are proud of the recent increases in participation, but also of improved levels of service and performance.
New Zealand now has 41,000 apprentices, and a further 100,000 working people of all ages gaining skills and qualifications through workplace learning.
Today's announcements on Apprenticeships and Maori and Pasifika Trades Training are forward looking and positive investments in our economic and wider wellbeing." Mr Williams says.
Contact Josh Williams: 021 618 467