Labour pledges $21 million for Māori trades training

The Labour Party has announced a significant pledge of $21 million per year dedicated to Māori-led trades training, should they win the upcoming election. This initiative aims to bolster vocational education and skills development within Māori communities across New Zealand.

If elected, Labour plans to establish a contestable, grant-based fund. This fund would be accessible to various Māori organizations, including marae and iwi trusts, enabling them to develop and deliver tailored trades training programs. The party believes this approach will empower Māori communities to lead their own educational pathways.

Willie Jackson, a prominent figure in Labour's campaign, highlighted the potential impact of the program. He stated that up to 3,000 Māori individuals could benefit from these new training opportunities. The announcement was made at an event attended by representatives of the TOP party, signaling a potential area of cross-party interest in supporting Māori development.

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up to 3000 Māori could benefit from his party's plans to bring back a trades training programme.