Study an option for over 100,000 Maori

26 July 2006

The workplace is proving to be a popular and successful environment for tertiary education and training, attracting 21-thousand young Maori according to the latest figures out today.

Ikaroa/Rawhiti MP, Parekura Horomia, says the figure is up from 18-thousand and also shows a high preference for building and construction and engineering industries.

"We also know that 1246 young Maori have chosen to take up a modern apprenticeship. This is a significant number and allows Apprentices to earn while they learn," says Parekura Horomia.

The programme also allows the Apprentice to gain a nationally recognised qualification while their employer gains crucial training and mentoring support.

"This is pleasing because when combined with the 90,765 Maori students in formal tertiary education across all providers in New Zealand, we have the genesis for a Maori population equipped with a solid skills base to build sustainable futures," says Parekura Horomia.

In the Eastern region there are currently 2575 Maori engaged in industry training with 1108 in the Manawatu/Wairarapa region. There are also167 young people involved in the Modern apprenticeship programme.

"Our electorate is contributing a significant amount to that overall figure and I am extremely proud of all of those people who are taking the opportunity to upskill themselves," says Parekura Horomia.

ENDS

© Scoop Media