27 May 2020
A message from Fiona Kingsford, Competenz CEO
Kia ora
Although we are awaiting details on how the Budget’s $1.6 billion Trades and Apprenticeships Training fund will be allocated, we are thrilled to already see a marked increase in interest from employers across the 37 sectors we support, particularly engineering and manufacturing. It’s fantastic to have this enthusiasm from our industries and their clear understanding of the value trades training brings to their businesses.
We have also seen a 46 per cent increase in page views to the Competenz website since Thursday’s budget news, telling us employers and learners are hungry to know more about these exciting trades training opportunities.
We know many of the Budget measures will also directly address the skills shortage New Zealand was facing before the COVID-19 pandemic began. Only two months ago, our industries were crying out for skilled employees as the skills shortages impacted them. Now more than ever having initiatives that support employees to reskill, upskill and be retained in employment will be critical to the New Zealand recovery over the long term.
We applaud the Government’s bold investment in the vocational education sector, the most substantial support we’ve seen in recent times. Competenz relishes the opportunity to ensure our industries, apprentices and trainees take full advantage of the incentives and support to enrol new learners and keep existing ones in training.
As soon as we know more, we'll update our website and social media, as well as communicating directly with employers, apprentices and trade associations.
Stand by for more!
In the meantime, stay safe, warm and well.
Ngā mihi
Fiona Kingsford
Competenz CEO
