Government Locks Students Out Of Tertiary Decision Making
The New Zealand University Students’ Association (NZUSA) is accusing the government of arrogance in excluding students
from its newly announced Tertiary Education Commission.
“With an election less than two months away, we’re surprised that government would demonstrate so clearly their contempt
for students, “ said NZUSA Co-President Charlie Chambers. “Every other country with a commission such as this accepts
students as experts with detailed knowledge of the issues relevant to the tertiary sector from a stakeholder point of
view. Labour are on their own on this internationally.”
NZUSA are also concerned at the blatant attempt to further meld tertiary education with the needs and goals of the
business sector, a plan confirmed by the skewed membership of the TEC.
“The government is hell bent on aligning tertiary education with the needs of business and fostering sectors with
commercial application. This is clearly reflected by the number of businessmen and managers on the commission,” said
Chambers.
”Why not go the whole hog and appoint Doug Graham to the TEC as well, “ said Chambers. “Without students there would be
no tertiary education. We call on the government to immediately appoint a student member.”
ENDS
For further information please contact
NZUSA Co-President Charlie Chambers
Wk: 04 498 2500 Cell: 0274 86 86 73