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NZTech Inform – inspiring the next generation
Kia ora,
Last week, I had a productive meeting with Minister Andersen to share our insights from Digital Skills Aotearoa, so she can be well placed to guide the investment of the Budget’s $27 million assigned to improving the digital skills pipeline. This follows my recent meeting with the Ministry of Education and the Tertiary Education Commission to preview the preliminary results from the upcoming report. It’s great to see how seriously these agencies are taking the digital skills issue.
The updated Digital Skills Aotearoa report is in its final editing stage and will be launched in August. But the news isn’t good, with participation in school STEM courses still declining and low levels of women, Māori and Pacific Peoples in relevant subjects. One of the key recommendations is we lean into and support the domestic Tech Story work, now called Tech Step. Funded by the Digital ITP, this initiative forms a framework we can all support, encourage and inspire rangatahi into tech career pathways.
Meanwhile, our ShadowTech programme returns for 2023 – inspiring girls in years 9-11 to consider the tech industry and its career pathways. This year’s locations include Hamilton on 12 September, Wellington on 13 September, Christchurch on 14 September and Auckland on 15 September. Please get involved by signing up to host school groups and show them a typical day in the life of your tech job. Everything you need to know is here.
In other news, the AI for the Environment Hackathon Festival is also back for another year. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and connect with others. Winners will then go onto pitch their ideas at the Aotearoa AI Summit in September.
I’m on holiday from this week, returning later in the month. I am looking forward to relaxing with family and returning refreshed for the second half of the year.
Ngā mihi nui
Graeme Muller
CEO
NZTech
PS: Please don’t forget that NZTech Board nominations close on Friday 14 July. Read more.
Read full news here: NZTech Inform – inspiring the next generation
