Wellington Chamber of Commerce

Thursday 15th October 2015

ICT school a boost for Wellington

The ICT Graduate School announced today for Wellington will be a big boost for the city’s and region’s booming technology sector, says Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive John Milford.

“The Government is to be commended on this initiative, which is one of three such schools around the country.

“Wellington excels in the area of information and communications technology, and I know that the collaboration between Victoria University, WelTec and Whitireia will make this a venture that will make a big contribution to the sector.

“The school will help address significant high-level skills shortages by feeding graduates directly into the industry, while providing innovative use of internships and research capability for our high-value high-tech companies.

“Wellington has the highest concentration of web-based and digital technology companies per capita in New Zealand, and we have 22% of all jobs in the computer system design sector, so we are perfectly placed to take full advantage of the skills the school will produce.

“It’s important that we ensure there are also good connections not just for graduates but right from the start, from primary school through to secondary school as well.”

“Recent figures show the growth in our hi-tech sector is three times faster than any other region, and that’s why we must do all we can to support this industry.

“Wellington continues to attract ICT start-ups and relocations due to lower rental and operational costs, compactness, and world-class data and telecommunications connections.

“This is tailor-made for us. The school will get funding to attract top students and academics and help them connect with our high-value high-tech firms.”

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