What we do
Tertiary education and research
OVERVIEW
Priority One’s Primary Strategic Actions
Facilitate the establishment of local tertiary education and research provision appropriate to support the needs of local businesses, particularly in the following key sectors:
- Harbour Central Marine Precinct
- INTERCOAST
- Horticulture & food processing
- Logistics
- Information & Communications Technology
Tertiary education, including research and development capability, is a critical component in driving economic growth. It not only provides direct training for those employed in key industries, but more importantly provides the intellectual input to drive innovation and entrepreneurialism in our businesses. These are the cornerstones of new product development, efficiency and ‘value-added’ productivity.
There is a particular need for an increased investment in tertiary education in the Western Bay of Plenty sub-region, where it has long been recognised that there has been an under supply. This is most pronounced in the areas of degree programmes and research opportunities. Statistics show that those living in the sub-region are close to average in their educational and vocational qualifications, with the exception of university qualifications, where they lag behind. However the under-provision is most clearly reflected in the outward migration of people in the 18-25 demographic. The strength of our future economy is dependent on our ability to retain and attract these young and talented people.
There is also a critical need for research provision to support our primary sectors of horticulture and wood processing, as well as niche manufacturing. Investment in science-based studies such as food processing, horticulture, aquaculture and powder metallurgy, as well as logistics and supply chain management, information and communications technology and health will significantly strengthen the region’s competitive advantages. There is an opportunity to transform the economy by clustering of training and research into key industry sectors to develop centres of excellence. Not only will the internationally recognised research centres attract global talent, they will also position Tauranga as a world leader in these areas of research and encourage companies to move to the Bay to access these new technologies.
