NMIT student leaders surprised at surplus

NMIT student leaders surprised at surplus

NMIT student leaders were surprised today to see the institute post a $5.3 million surplus for the 2010 Academic year.

SANITI Student Executive member Scott Tambisari said that students were supportive of NMIT having a strong financial position. "We understand that the Government is continuing to cut funding from NMIT. However, students are legitimately questioning large fee increases for 2011, particularly the introduction of a $120 student services levy", Scott Tambisari said.

Students are also upset about cuts in contact hours for some programmes and reductions in essential printing allowances for course resources. "The students association has heard from a number of students who are concerned about cuts to teaching hours and resources. They will be questioning such decisions in the light of this surplus", Scott Tambisari said. "We are hoping to see enhanced commitments towards practical support for students' learning", Scott Tambisari continued.

Student leaders were pleased to hear that part of the surplus was allocated towards an increase in $500,000 for student scholarships. SANITI Student Executive member Becky Siame said she hoped that a large portion of the surplus could be allocated towards supporting students to succeed in their studies. To ensure the surplus is used towards the learning resources students' need it will be very important for NMIT to work closely with the Student Executive and Programme Representatives. In particular, support for students in hardship and increased access to learning resources would be valued by students", Becky Siame said.

"At the end of the day, would we rather be the polytechnic with the most profit or a polytechnic recognised for its quality programmes, excellence in delivery and good outcomes for graduates?", Becky Siame concluded.

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