Reasons for optimism with launch of TEC

All learners have reason for optimism with launch of TEC

The Aotearoa Tertiary Students' Association (ATSA) believes all tertiary students, across the sector, can be reasonably confident that the newly created Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), is the best tool to generate real change in the way the tertiary sector delivers the best possible educational opportunities to all.

"ATSA and its members are committed to working effectively with the commission, which must remain focussed on the needs of learners," ATSA President Julie Pettett stated today. " One of the principles underlying ATSA's purpose is that tertiary education must be accessible to all citizens and permanent residents of Aotearoa New Zealand. We expect the TEC to monitor the sector's movement towards ensuring there is true 'equity of access and opportunity for all learners', (as set out in the Tertiary Education Strategy [TES] Objective 20), especially as it relates to traditionally disadvantaged groups.

ATSA believes that building effective working relationships between tertiary providers and the compulsory sector is of critical importance. "Creating such "linkages between secondary and tertiary education…" (TES Objective 17), should be a priority for the commission," Pettett said. "Of particular importance to learners are the 'Charter and Profile' each publicly funded provider must create. ATSA expects the TEC to monitor how providers effectively engage with their stakeholders in the development of this key document."

"As the numerically largest stakeholder in the sector, the needs of learners, whether studying at polytechnics, universities, colleges of education, wananga or private providers, must always remain one of the key interests that informs the commission's work," Pettett concluded.

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