Media Release
For immediate release
18 October 2005
Student Job Search welcomes Benson-Pope in new role
Student Job Search (SJS) today welcomed David Benson-Pope’s appointment as Minister for Social Development and
Employment.
“We have achieved many positive outcomes for tertiary students working in collaboration with previous Ministers in this
role and we look forward to continuing that good work Mr Benson-Pope,” said Andrew Kirton, National Chairperson of SJS.
“Tertiary students comprise a key part of New Zealand’s workforce, particularly in regions that have large student
populations such as Otago. Increasingly, they are filling vital skill shortages and working in skilled, career-oriented
positions while they study.
“As students face increasing debt levels it is imperative that we continue working closely with Government to provide
them with solid employment opportunities that help offset the costs of borrowing while providing them with the basis for
a strong career in New Zealand post-graduation,” Mr Kirton said.
SJS is the largest provider of employment opportunities for students in New Zealand. Last summer, they placed students
into over 32 000 positions, earning students in excess of $50 million. That figure is expected to exceed $60 million
this summer.
Established in 1982, SJS is a primarily government-funded, student-run service for all tertiary students throughout New
Zealand.
ENDS