7 June 2011
Who: Hon. Mayor Len Brown, Auckland
What: Signing of Memorandum of Understanding with Computer Clubhouse New Zealand to develop Clubhouse network across Auckland region
When: 7 June 2011 at 10am
Where: Town Hall Boardroom, Auckland Town Hall

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

Computer Clubhouse New Zealand (CCNZ) continues to ramp up their mission to provide access to high-technology and promote policies that result in jobs in the sector for young people in Auckland and across New Zealand through two new strategic cooperation and funding alliances.

Mayor Len Brown of Auckland signs a Memorandum of Understanding with CCNZ to formalise dialogue and cooperation around the role of the high-tech sector in the economic growth of the City, and establish clear pathways for engaging highly-motivated youth in a Computer Clubhouse Network across the Auckland region.

“This MOU, while non-binding, acknowledges the need for cooperative relationships centered on a kaupapa or policy of good faith, trust, and openness between the Auckland Council and organisations committed to social and economic development in underserved communities”, said Mayor Brown.

"Young people empowered with high-tech skills such as those developed in Computer Clubhouses will ensure Auckland has the present and future workforce necessary to fill the high-tech jobs that will help drive the city's and the nation's productivity" added Mayor Brown.

There are currently five Clubhouses in New Zealand --Wellington, Hamilton, Whakatane, Wanganui-- and the flagship Clubhouse 274 in Otara will be joined in Auckland by the latest one being built in Henderson this year. The plan is for 12 Clubhouses opening in New Zealand by the end of 2012.

Mike Usmar, CEO of CCNZ, is encouraged by the MOU with Auckland Council as it comes on the heels of last week’s announcement of funding from the Government.

“The MOU with Auckland Council provides CCNZ with the confidence that the Mayor and Councilors understand the urgency for continued dialogue and collaboration between community groups, government and the private sector, to develop policies and initiatives that support the role of high-tech in creating jobs and building our future economy” said Mr.Usmar.

On 2 June, Hon Tariana Turia, Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector announced new funding of $3.3 million over three years which guarantees that CCNZ can continue to provide community-based education and training programs and increase digital literacy and connectivity. Computers in Homes are also named as beneficiaries.

“Being digitally literate is no longer merely optional – it is an essential life skill, and 20-30% of New Zealanders lack access to digital tools or the ability to use them” said Mrs. Turia.

According to Mr.Usmar, “This funding will help ensure the success of our plans to reproduce the Clubhouse learning model which provides access to high-tech infrastructure and training to young people in underserved communities across the country, and prepares them for jobs and careers in the sector.”

Brett O’Riley, Chairman of the Network of Aotearoa Clubhouses, and Chief Executive Officer of NZICT Group said: “This strategic alliance with Auckland Council and the funding from government when coupled with CCNZ’s engagement with key stakeholders in the high-tech industry, are excellent examples of how community organisations, national and local governments, and the private sector can work together to improve access to and up take of digital and other technologies that lead to jobs and valuable exports for New Zealand.”
ENDS

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