Whitireia Welcomes Proposed ICT Education Investment

/ For immediate release
Whitireia Welcomes Government’s Proposed Investment in Information Technology Education

Whitireia Chief Executive Don Campbell has welcomed the Government’s announcement yesterday of three new centres to focus on producing information technology graduates for employers and industry.

"The objective of these centres seems to fit perfectly with our role as a polytechnic. We are well placed to support the Government’s initiative with an established reputation for producing work-ready graduates who are equipped with the skills needed to make immediate impact in the workplace.”

“Our current range of Information Technology programmes includes preparatory certificates and diplomas, a degree in Information Technology (IT) as well as postgraduate qualifications and a Master’s degree” Don Campbell noted.

Although little detail is known as yet about how this initiative would be delivered, it appears to be in response to calls from employers for more IT graduates who have had some experience in the workplace and can immediately contribute from the applied skills they have acquired.

“Collaborative approaches between institutions offer distinct advantages, allowing for a wide range of programmes that can respond to differing IT needs across the economy,” Mr Campbell said.

"The Choice Protocol, our strategic partnership with Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec), is well established and collectively offers an impressive suite of IT programmes. Added to this is the highly effective Computer Power Plus, jointly owned by Whitireia and WelTec, which is working very well in Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland, meeting industry needs for skilled graduates” said Mr Campbell.

Dean of Business and Information Technology at Whitireia, Gerry McCullough said, "IT programmes at Whitireia are delivered via a hands-on approach to learning, giving students a focused, applied pathway to employment in Information Technology. “

“As part of their study, students engage with industry, giving them real-world experience in real businesses. Our highly regarded qualifications from certificate level to Master’s degree focus on what businesses need; work-ready and experienced graduates with relevant IT skills to help businesses and the economy grow” he said.

ENDS

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