The Government has announced a major reform package for New Zealand’s universities, designed to give students better opportunities while making sure taxpayer funding delivers real results.

Universities Minister Dr Shane Reti said today that although New Zealand’s universities sit in the top three per cent worldwide, the sector must adapt to a fast-changing economy.

The plan includes a new Tertiary Education Strategy to align teaching with future skill needs, a University Strategy Group to link universities with government and industry, and a simplified $315m Tertiary Research Excellence Fund to replace the Performance-Based Research Fund.

Stronger quality systems and updated governance rules are also part of the shake-up.

“These changes will help universities focus on what matters, developing the workforce we need now and in the future, and delivering excellent research and innovation that creates real value for New Zealand,” Dr Reti said.

For Hibiscus Coast families, the changes are significant.

Many local students move into Auckland universities, and reforms that tie study more closely to jobs could mean stronger career paths and research that benefits local businesses.

The reforms, shaped by a report from Sir Peter Gluckman’s University Advisory Group, will be rolled out in consultation with universities, students, and industry in the months ahead.

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