Apprenticeships back in force

Apprenticeships back in force

“Industry apprenticeships and trainees are back in force”, said Darel Hall Executive Director of the Industry Training Federation. “There were more apprentices and trainees in 2003 than ever before”.

Information released by the Prime Minister this morning shows there were 126,870 people in industry training in 2003, a 19% increase on 2002 which was a record year.

“The Government’s target of 150,000 apprentices and trainees by 2005 is well in hand. The key to this result is increased Government funding matched by increased employer contributions.

“The next goal we all want to achieve is 250,000 apprentices and trainees by 2007. These latest statistic suggest that Industry Training Organisations working with their industries can continue to increase apprentices and trainees towards the 250,000 goal.

“There is interest in skill development throughout the country – employers and employees know that skills education pays off.”

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