Further support for tertiary learners

Education Minister Chris Hipkins has announced a $20 million fund to help eligible tertiary learners continue their education disrupted by COVID-19.

The Government wants to ensure learners in need can access support for distance learning as soon as possible as many don’t have the appropriate devices, internet connections and related support to undertake technology-enabled learning.

A recent survey by the Tertiary Education Commission and New Zealand Qualifications Authority shows at least 11,150 students do not have the right devices to engage in online learning, and at least 11,350 learners do not have access to broadband internet at home.

The Technology Access Fund for Learners will help make digital devices and internet connections available to eligible learners. It will be available to tertiary education organisations including Wānanga, the NZIST and its subsidiaries, transitional industry training organisations and private training establishments who will be required to ensure vulnerable students are prioritised. Funding will be available by the end of next week to providers.

For more information visit TEC website(external link).

COVID-19: Support for tertiary students to learn online - Beehive.govt.nz(external link)

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