17 April 2006
PTEs are 'more responsive to needs of industry': need equitable regulation
New Ministry of Education research, finding that private training establishments (PTEs) are more responsive to industry
needs than public tertiary institutions, highlights the national interest in their having equitable public funding and
regulation, says Education Forum spokesman Norman LaRocque.
The ministry report says industry groups found PTEs to have "a greater service-like attitude towards industry that
manifested itself as 'you're the mountain and we'll come to you.'" (see page 49 of the report for this and many other
quotes, link below)
In contrast, polytechnics and institutes of technology were described as showing a lack of flexibility and being unable
to provide new training within the timeframes demanded by industry.
Mr LaRocque said the report showed how important it was that Dr Cullen's impending tertiary education changes recognised
the valuable role PTEs had in providing opportunity to New Zealanders and employers with skilled workers.
"It is imperative that Dr Cullen's proposed changes move New Zealand toward a more responsive and more equitable
regulatory and funding framework than currently exists."
The Ministry of Education report, 'Engagement of key stakeholder groups with the tertiary education providers', is at
http://educationcounts.edcentre.govt.nz/publications/downloads/research-st akeholders.pdf (see page 49)
ENDS