The Government has begun the process of disestablishing Te Pūkenga as part of its 100-day plan, Minister for Tertiary Education and Skills Penny Simmonds said.
“I have started putting that plan into action and have met with the chair and chief Executive of Te Pūkenga to advise them of my approach. I have also issued a new letter of expectation to the council this week.
Te Pūkenga has a number of courses available for training in the restaurant and hospitality sector. A number of on-site facilities have also been introduced in order to cater to different styles of learning, including restaurants and cafes.
Simmonds added that the council of Te Pūkenga has been asked to cease any activities that are inconsistent with disestablishment. This includes recruitment and staff restructuring activity, and other actions that will make it difficult to re-establish former ITPs as institutions.
“The management of Te Pūkenga will be expected to focus on ensuring students, employers, and staff are well supported through this next phase. Students will be able to continue their courses as normal. I have asked my officials for advice on the programme of work required to support the Government’s new agenda, including the legislative timeline."
Key parts of that advice will include ensuring financial stability currently and in the future and restoring regional decision-making for local institutions to ensure they can better respond to the education needs of their communities.
Simmonds said that she would also be asking for advice on what other changes to the vocational sector might be needed to support and complement the disestablishment of Te Pūkenga.
