Skills needed for high wage economy

Business NZ has welcomed the launch of the Skills Strategy, saying higher skill levels are needed to build a productive, high-wage economy.

“It’s important to ensure all New Zealanders can participate fully in society and in a growing economy,” said Business NZ Chief Executive Phil O’Reilly.

“We welcome the focus on literacy, numeracy and communication skills in the workplace, and the prospect of increased assistance for employers with young workers.”

Mr O’Reilly said there was a need for business and education providers to work more closely together, and he welcomed the fact that the strategy would be based on a public-private partnership model.