Weltec to Foster Industry Innovation

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MEDIA RELEASE: 25 July 2012

Weltec to Foster Industry Innovation

The Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec) has announced its involvement in a national initiative that will benefit local industries and which aims to develop the export competitiveness of the country.

The recently launched Mosaic Innovation Network is a collaborative program between business and tertiary education providers aimed at fostering the development of digital innovation in New Zealand.

Linda Sissons, Chief Executive of WelTec, advised the Institute’s involvement in the program will see an increased number of local ICT internships and industry based projects. “WelTec’s involvement is based around government open data and security. This brings in national companies with an interest in information security and aligns with our degree and graduate diploma in information security.

“WelTec is serious about digitally enabled economic development in Wellington. Over the past few years we have witnessed the challenges that industries face in order to compete in an increasingly digital global economy.

“To remain competitive, industries within New Zealand must identify where the demand is and develop a skilled labourforce and new technologies to match that demand.

“Our involvement with the Mosaic Innovation Network will do just that. Industry operators can benefit from the knowledge and enthusiasm of our ICT students through internships and industry based placements.

“This is an excellent opportunity for business who will benefit from the abilities of our innovation students. Similarly, an industry placement will also prove invaluable for our students who will be inspired, supported and will develop the key skills needed for succeeding in the workplace.”

The Future Cities Institute’s Chief Executive, Malcolm Fraser agreed with the notion that businesses throughout multiple sectors in New Zealand need to harness digital innovation in order to remain competitive.

“No single organisation can do it all but we must acknowledge that global innovation has to start at a local level. Mosaic aims to make the transition to digital technology more successful by connecting local businesses, students and researchers with a view to foster interaction, ideas, innovation and knowledge.

“The result will be more industry-relevant graduates and an overall skilled workforce, strengthening our national competiveness, improving economic productivity and fuelling the future growth of New Zealand.”

The Mosaic Innovation Network is the result of a partnership between the Metro Group of Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) including Unitec Institute of Technology, Waikato Institute of Technology, Wellington Institute of Technology, Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology and Otago Polytechnic and further collaboration with industry specific organisations including Microsoft New Zealand, Agitavi International, Synapsys, Industrial Research Limited and Economic Development Agencies of New Zealand.

Prospective industry operators can learn more about the program and register their interest by visiting the website www.digitalmosaic.org

ENDS

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