A $1.6 billion trades training and apprenticeships package could provide a boost to the Whanganui labour force post-Covid-19, and tertiary education provider UCOL is set to investigate opportunities.
The Government's trades and apprenticeships training package was announced in this month's Budget, providing an opportunity for UCOL to play an increasing role in training more people into skilled jobs and supporting businesses post-Covid-19, UCOL chief of operations Dr Linda Sissons said.
UCOL has set up a team to look at the details of the package and work with industries, employers and government agencies in Whanganui, Manawatū, Horowhenua and Wairarapa to identify employment and training gaps and opportunities. It will work with local industries and employers to ensure initiatives under the training package meet their labour force needs.
![UCOL chief of operations Dr Linda Sissons. Photo / Supplied](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/LOIHGF7TKBJZIUXLV5CAO4AT6Q.jpg?auth=e3911a174c616aba9edef77cca4fb25ccaa955838666b7f968cea758a28a58a2&width=16&height=24&quality=70&smart=true)
Sissons said UCOL would work alongside industry training organisations, the new Workforce Development Councils, iwi and the Ministry of Social Development as well as economic development agencies.