NZTech Submission: Collaborative Approach Needed for Work-Based Learning in Tech Sector

Submission by NZTech to the Ministry of Education

NZTech has submitted recommendations to the Ministry of Education on the future of work-based learning, emphasizing the critical need for improved digital skills training pathways.

Current Challenges

• 45% of NZ’s digital workforce relies on talent operating on work visas
• Existing pathways for upskilling and advanced digital training for the NZ workforce are inadequate
• Digital skills demand spans across all sectors undergoing digital modernisation
• Only half of digital workers are employed in the tech sector

Key Recommendations

• Support the collaborative work-based learning model with dedicated pastoral care
• Establish specific Industry Skills Body (ISB) for digital/business roles
• Develop closer collaboration between industry and education system
• Focus on industry input during policy development, not just consultation

Implementation Requirements

• Recognition that tech firms need support to implement work-based learning
• Dedicated entity to manage pastoral care responsibilities
• System-wide approach to facilitate successful outcomes
• Strong emphasis on industry-education collaboration

NZTech’s submission highlights that improving education pathways for digital skills is crucial for New Zealand’s entire economy, not just the tech sector.