Tertiary education sector criticism mounts over proposed changes.
Labour's tertiary education spokesperson Deborah Russell has expressed deep concerns over Minister Penny Simmonds' plan for the tertiary sector, labelling it a "backwards step." The proposal aims to disband Te Pukenga, a model that was initially set up due to polytechnics and Institutes of Technology struggling to survive individually. However, according to Russell, feedback from the sector indicates that Te Pukenga had made significant progress before being dismantled.
Minister Simmonds has ignored advice from her officials and specialist advisors to form regional groups of polytechnics, allowing them to draw on each other's strengths for financial viability. This decision has been met with criticism as only two former Institutes of Technology and Polytechs are capable of standing alone. The proposed consultation on models for on-the-job training is seen as a positive step but the effectiveness of this approach remains uncertain.
Russell urges Minister Simmonds to reconsider her plan, citing the potential disruption it will cause for students and staff. With some experts advising against the current proposal, there is growing concern that the sector will be taken backwards by these changes.