Media Release
For Immediate Release
Polytechnic governance changes must serve community interests
Speaking on behalf of the ITP New Zealand Board, Dennis Sharman (Whitireia Polytechnic Council Chair) said that
government proposals to strengthen polytechnic governance must ensure community interests play a strong role.
“The performance and value of polytechnics depend strongly on the professional and vocational education they provide for
communities throughout New Zealand. Community interests must therefore feature strongly in the governance processes for
polytechnics”, said Mr Sharman.
Mr Sharman said he looked forward to discussing governance issues further with the Government, as they consider
legislation aimed at strengthening polytechnic governance. “We value good governance for polytechnics. And we
recognise that good governance will be vital as polytechnics deal with challenges facing them over the next few years in
responding to both growing demand for skills in New Zealand’s workforce and funding pressures in current economic
conditions”, said Mr Sharman.
ENDS