A path to employability

The New Zealand government is phasing out the "fees-free" policy for third-year university students, redirecting funds to bolster vocational training and apprenticeships. This shift addresses a long-standing cultural prejudice that prioritizes university degrees over trade qualifications, despite evidence that many students do not pursue degree-level study. Dr. Michael Johnston, a senior fellow at the New Zealand Initiative, advocates for industry-led secondary school curricula modeled on successful international dual-training systems. Similarly, Josh Williams of the Skills Development Group emphasizes that the current education system fails to provide clear pathways for the 70% of students who do not attend university. By integrating vocational guidance and industry-aligned training into schools, the government aims to improve job readiness and provide students with viable, high-earning career alternatives that bypass the burden of significant student debt.