Dr Reynold Macpherson Chief Executive Officer
26 January 2005 Media Statement
Waiariki Wins 60% Increase in 5.1s
The allocation of adult and community education funds to Waiariki by the TEC has jumped from a notional allocation of
194 EFTS to 410.5 for 2005, only 26 short of what was requested, said CEO Dr Reynold Macpherson. The jump in Priority
EFTS is taken to indicate TEC’s commitment to distributional justice and community regeneration.
Over half of these 5.1s will be used to sustain continuing foundation and bridging courses in computing, literacy and
numeracy in some of New Zealand’s most deprived communities, and to maintain the famous kaupapa Maori outward bound
course; Mau Rakau.
“The fresh allocations by TEC are to run short courses in iwi regeneration, community development, teen parenting and
urban youth networks” said Dr Macpherson. “We have also been funded to launch taster courses in the trades, tourism and
forestry, as well as pilot courses in Pacifika outward bound, Kaumatua governance and iwi rural studies.”
“These allocations can be seen as national vote of confidence in the quality and relevance of the courses developed over
years by Mita Mohi, Tangiwai Doctor, Pat Mole and many others in Te Pakaro a Ihenga and Business and Computing Studies.
They give people a practical alternative to the couch, boost their confidence and skills, and get them on to learning
pathways to jobs.”
“The new courses respond to requests from some of the most disadvantaged communities in New Zealand. We won’t make much
on these courses as they all require fresh distance delivery systems and active stakeholder engagement,” said Dr
Macpherson. “But they will help transform people and communities. And that’s what polytechnics can excel at.”
The 410.5 5.1 EFTS will bring over $2m to Waiariki and provide about 9,900 places in adult and community education.
ENDS