Unitec has commenced a number of vocational courses at its new Albany Campus to cater to the growing demand for high quality educational programmes in the Auckland region.
Tertiary Education Minister Steven Joyce inaugurated the Campus recently, stating that vocational courses were important to promote a skilled workforce.
The Campus opened its gates to students on August 1, many of who would be future electricians, automotive engineers, IT specialists, business entrepreneurs and healthcare workers.
Unitec Chief Executive Dr Rick Ede said that based on surveys, the demand for vocational courses in Auckland North and Rodney District will rise from the current level of 329,000 to 431,000 over the next 20 years.
“Albany is a technology, innovation and learning hub and the range of programmes offered at our Campus will enhance the skill base of people living on the North Shore and support economic development in this area,” he said.
A Unitec notification said that the new campus will offer a number of certificate programmes including Autotronic, Automotive and Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Multiskill Building Construction, Information Technology, Animal Care And Health Care, Photography, Communication Studies, Foundation Learning And English Languages programmes.
“The Campus is expected to have 300 students in 2011, with student numbers growing to over 1000 within a few years,” the notification said.
It is understood that the new Campus conforms to concept of Sustainability incorporating a campus recycling programme, designated car pooling spaces, a worm farm and proximity to public transport.
“We plan to expand the level of programmes, including applied degrees over the next few years,” Dr Ede said.
