Media Release
31 July 2003
Tripartite Initiative On Workplace Learning
The launch today of the new skill new zealand project is another major step towards the expansion and development of
critical workplace skills that remain stretched too thinly across the economy, Business New Zealand Chief Executive
Simon Carlaw said.
"We particularly welcome the tripartite partnership that underpins the initiative. Effective workplace learning must be
driven from the bottom up, recognising the needs of both employers and employees across business and industry.
"The Government's role is equally critical. The tertiary education system must harness the strengths and experience of
all the key organisations that focus on skill acquisition, especially industry training organisations, individual
businesses, and the polytechnics. While the Tertiary Education Commission will be accountable to the Government for
this, skill new zealand will champion the cause of workplace learning within the tertiary system as a whole.
"A growing economy requires a tertiary education system that is responsive to far more complex demands and many more
participants on a continuing basis than could ever be accommodated by any combination of tertiary institutions. On the
job training and learning must have equal status in the future."
ENDS