Unitec transformation takes major step forward

Unitec transformation takes major step forward

Unitec’s transformation has reached a significant milestone with required funding commitments secured from two major banks.

Westpac and ASB have committed to fully supporting Unitec as it makes significant changes to its campus and teaching and learning practices.

Over the next five to seven years Unitec will be transforming its campus environments, including the creation of a compact, lively and modern learning environment at the southern end of its Mt Albert site.

Currently the Mt Albert campus includes 177 buildings spread over 53.5 hectares. Many of these buildings are no longer fit for purpose, are costly to maintain and pose an earthquake risk.

The changes will better equip Unitec to meet the evolving requirements of both students and those who will employ graduates.

“Our transformation is in response to the demands of the people we teach and the industries we serve,” Unitec CE Dr Rick Ede says.

“Students want to be taught in ways that make the most of technology and which are highly relevant and connected to real world work. Employers want graduates who have the skills for the job and the experience of what it means to be in the workplace of the future.

“This is what we aim to deliver so it’s exciting to now be able to take this transformation forward with our new partners.”

The first campus projects have already begun with work on a new Construction, Engineering and Trades building and transformed student Hub underway with completion dates of mid-2017.

The new Trades building will be a versatile, flexible and multi-purpose space primarily focused on Unitec’s Technology and Built Environment courses and programmes. The Hub will be rebuilt to create a vibrant core that will be the heart of a world-class campus.

New spaces will allow for flexible, collaborative and technology-enabled education.

Westpac GM Commercial Corporate and Institutional, Karen Silk, says as well as contributing to the financing of the transformation the bank hopes to strengthen its links with Unitec.

“Unitec has put forward a strong business case so we are pleased to work with the institute to see this vision realised,” Karen says. “We also see opportunities to work closely with Unitec to provide some work-based training for students from a range of subjects. We already work with students in the on-campus IBM Delivery Centre on app development and customer service which is working very well.”

ASB General Manager Corporate Henry Withers says ASB is delighted to work with Unitec to support its future growth ambitions.

“Connecting students, innovation and a state-of-the-art campus aligns strongly with ASB’s vision to support a vibrant education sector that attracts local and international students to New Zealand,” Mr Withers says.

For more information on Unitec’s transformation visit http://www.unitec.ac.nz/about-us/our-transformation.

ENDS

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