Plan to boost tertiary studies

A new tertiary education strategy aims to provide more learners with skills that industries need, as well as focusing on building international linkages and strengthening research-based learning. Steven Joyce, the Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment Minister, says the new policy set expectations from now until 2019 and aims to achieve faster progress with some of the key challenges facing learners in the 21st century. “Tertiary education must continue to adapt to provide skills and qualifications New Zealanders need to contribute in the labour market in innovative and competitive ways,” says Joyce. The document sets out six strategic priorities designed to encourage a more adaptable system that makes the most of strong links with businesses, communities and the world economy. They include delivering skills for industry, getting at-risk young people into careers, and boosting Māori and Pasifika achievement. Other aims are improving adult literacy and numeracy, strengthening research-based institutions and expanding international links. “The tertiary education and research system has been responding well to a focus on achievement over the past five years,” says Joyce. “Since 2008, there has been a rise in the number of full-time student numbers. We are seeing more graduates than ever before and at higher levels. We’ve also seen more Māori and Pasifika participate and achieve. “The number of apprentices entering industry training is also on the rise with 10,000 new apprentices signing up between March and December 2013, compared to the usual annual new intake of 7,000. “More young people who have not achieved in the classroom are succeeding in the youth guarantee scheme with completion rates increasing from 48 per cent in 2010 to 64 per cent in 2012.” Joyce says the challenges are to more closely link what students are learning with the needs of industry, encourage innovation and an international outlook, and ensure all people have the chance to gain the skills they need to participate successfully in modern life. “The sector needs to move quickly to provide more opportunities for students in ICT, engineering, science and agriculture. There is an insatiable demand from employers for graduates in these disciplines as the economy grows. “We must harness our momentum and ensure that the tertiary education system is contributing to better and more relevant outcomes for all.”