Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Vote-buying over student loans disappointing
1 February 2008
Vote-buying over student loans disappointing
Both main parties are vote-buying over student loans, says Business NZ Chief Executive Phil O'Reilly.
"The interest-free student loan policy is costing New Zealanders more than half a billion dollars each year - money that New Zealand as a whole gets no social value from. Adding in 'repayment bonuses' will make that cost even higher.
"This is money that is being diverted from funding teachers, facilities and world-class research.
"We have severe skills shortages in our workplaces and many young people are leaving school without enough skills to contribute to the workplace. Tertiary institutions can't get the funding to attract and keep key staff.
"There is some good work going on in education policy, but much more needs to be done. Pouring money into interest-free student loans is not addressing our fundamental needs in tertiary education."
ENDS
Business Canterbury: Urges Council To Cut Costs, Not Ambition For City
Wellington Airport: On Track For Net Zero Emissions By 2028
Landcare Research: ANZAC Gall Fly Release Promises Natural Solution To Weed Threat
NZ Anti-Vivisection Society: Auckland Rat Lovers Unite!
University of Canterbury: $1.35 Million Grant To Study Lion-like Jumping Spiders
Federated Farmers: Government Ends War On Farming
