14 March 2002

Government Policy Does Not Measure Up

Government says it is taking steps to raise skill levels in the New Zealand workforce but fails to distinguish the vital difference between education and skills and continues to expect educational institutes to be the prime source of skills.

Real skills are imparted by example from those who enjoy utilising the skills required for their work, not by people who enjoy lecturing. This is acknowledged to some extent by government with the introduction of Modern Apprenticeships but the most notable feature of this programme is the very few people it affects.

The need for upskilling our workforce will only be met when apprenticeships become widespread and a major factor in our economy. This will only happen if employers are relieved of the costs of ‘on the job’ training.

Christian Heritage policy promotes a taxation and regulatory environment that make it much easier for busy employers to take on apprentices.

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