OECD calls for better spend on vocation education

Media Release – 21 February 2008

OECD calls for better spend on vocational education and training

An OECD report released today has backed up industry training sector concerns of inequities in government funding for vocational and educational training.1

‘We are heartened that the OECD shares our concern that polytechnics get three times more funding for the same kind of training as Industry Training Organisations arrange,’ executive director Jeremy Baker said today.

‘This is an issue we have raised with government at several levels and I am hopeful that the report released today will spark some much needed action to sort the problem out.

‘With the considerable support ITOs enjoy from their industries, and the government’s desire to utilise their expertise, it makes no sense whatsoever for the government to fund polytechnics at a much higher rate for the same training. There are many other areas where polytechnic training is high quality and appropriate and that is where government support should be directed.’ Mr Baker said the report also recommends developing a more formal pathway in schools for vocational education.

‘ITOs are currently working with schools on programmes like Gateway and the newly announced Youth Apprenticeship pilots. The OECD’s recommendation confirms the importance of developing a more deliberate approach to increased coherence and public understanding of vocational pathways in senior secondary schools,’ Mr Baker said.

ENDS

1 Refer to OECD report Jobs for Youth - New Zealand, chapter 2, page 97, note 26.

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