Employers in the Wellington region welcome the Government’s proposals to revamp the vocational education sector so it is better able to give learners the skills businesses need, says the Wellington Chamber of Commerce.

"For too long, businesses have been struggling to find the right people to help them grow, so ensuring our polytechnics are in a position to deliver with more consistency the quality skills we need will be a great step forward," says Chief Executive John Milford.

"I’m confident that a slimmed-down, centralised system will deliver that.

"Wellington has always prided itself in having some of New Zealand’s top-class vocational providers, but it’s clear that in recent years they have been operating under a system that was increasing inefficient and was weighing them down.

"These proposals look to clear the way for providers to address local skill shortages by way of regional leadership groups. For Wellington, that could mean more of a focus on areas such as information technology, film, hospitality, and business management.

"For that to happen, it is essential business is at the forefront of identifying where those shortages are, and we’re encouraged by proposals along those lines. We’re ready, willing and able to play a big part in this.

"It’s great to see an acknowledgement that we need closer links between businesses and local education and training organisations. Small businesses that don’t have the same scale and capability for training must be well served by the education and training system.

"Vocational education reform on this scale will be challenging. Businesses are looking to the Government to smoothly manage this transition so the flow of skills entering the workforce remains uninterrupted.

"The consultation period is only six weeks long so it’s important businesses engage fully in the conversation about these changes."

ENDS

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