Friday, 06 June 2014 13:52

50,000 more workers needed

Written by 

A REPORT that forecasts the future workforce needs of the primary sector, 'Future capability needs for the primary industries in New Zealand' has been launched by Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy.

 

"The report highlights that employment in the primary industries is expected to increase by 50,000 by 2025 to reach the Government's goal of an export double. Over half of these workers will need a tertiary or Level 4 qualification," says Guy.

Guy says the report is a snapshot of the future skills required across the sector. "There's good capacity in our tertiary education system to meet this need. The challenge for all of us is to inspire more young people to obtain good qualifications and work in the sector," he says.

"The new primary sector vocational pathway at senior secondary level, the new combined primary sector ITO, the EPIC challenge, and dedicated primary sector institutions like Lincoln, Massey, Taratahi and Telford will all play a part alongside the industry in achieving this.

"We also have many opportunities, such as the National Fieldays, for industry to showcase itself and entice the next robotic engineer, food scientist or silviculturist into the engine room of New Zealand's economy," says Guy.

The report also finds that primary industries will remain a major source of employment, especially in the regions. In some regions, such as Gisborne, Tasman, Marlborough and Southland, they account for nearly one in every three jobs.

The report was funded by the Ministry for Primary Industries, DairyNZ, and Beef + Lamb New Zealand with support from primary industry representatives.

See www.mpi.govt.nz/future_capability

More like this

Honey industry group set to merge

A big shakeup in the honey sector is about to take place with the news that the industry good body, ApiNZ, and the export focused Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association are looking to merge to form a new industry body.

Red meat's China push

The red meat sector is launching a new campaign to lure Chinese consumers to New Zealand grass-fed beef and lamb.

Featured

A big win for wool!

State-owned social housing provider Kainga Ora is switching to wool carpet for its new homes.

Editorial: Sense at last

OPINION: For the first time in many years, a commonsense approach is emerging to balance environmental issues with the need for the nation's primary producers to be able to operate effectively.

National

Machinery & Products

Calf feeding boost

Advantage Plastics says it is revolutionising calf meal storage and handling, making farm life easier, safer, and more efficient this…

JD's precision essentials

Farmers across New Zealand are renowned for their productivity and efficiency, always wanting to do more with less, while getting…

» Latest Print Issues Online

The Hound

Are they serious?

OPINION: The Greens aren’t serious people when it comes to the economy, so let’s not spend too much on their…

A hurry up!

OPINION: PM Chris Luxon is getting pinged lately for rolling out the old 'we're still a new government' line when…

» Connect with Rural News

» eNewsletter

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter