FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday 7 July 2011

Third Sector leading drive to develop high-tech jobs, digital fluency, and connected Pacific communities in NZ

Computer Clubhouse New Zealand (CCNZ) continues to ramp up their mission to provide underserved communities with access to high-technology skills and promote policies that result in jobs in the high tech sector. This time through a collaboration with the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs.

The Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs (MPIA) signs a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CCNZ to formalise a commitment to social and economic development for Pacific and underserved communities in Aotearoa/New Zealand. The relationship will seek to develop skills and opportunities for Pacific young people and their communities through computer clubhouses and its national network. Clubhouses excite, engage and motivate young people to be creative with technology, learning high tech skills leading to opportunities and jobs in the high tech sector.

Mike Usmar, CEO of CCNZ, is delighted with the MOU with MPIA as it comes on the heels of last month’s announcement of funding from the Government. The MOU is based on the principles of collective responsibility and collaborative action.

"Our young people are our future leaders and enterpreneurs, geared up with high-tech skills such as those developed in Computer Clubhouses will ensure Pacific young peoples are a major contributor to a skilled knowledge workforce necessary to fill the high-tech jobs that will drive this country’s economy forward." added Mr Usmar.

There are currently five Clubhouses in New Zealand: Wellington, Hamilton, Whakatane, Wanganui, and the flagship Clubhouse 274 in Otara. A new clubhouse is being built in Henderson this year. CCNZ plans to establish 12 Clubhouses in New Zealand by the end of 2012.

ENDS
www.computerclubhouse.org.nz

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