New Zealand is a country that places great emphasis on education, and an increasingly important part of education for the Kiwi population is lifelong learning. Lifelong learning is defined as the ongoing pursuit of knowledge for personal or professional development and is essential in the ever-changing world of work. New Zealanders have embraced this concept and leveraged the many education and training opportunities available to them, making lifelong learning a cornerstone of the nation’s economy and citizens’ lives.
Growth of Lifelong Learning
The number of New Zealanders participating in lifelong learning has increased in recent years. According to the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) 2018 report, the number of registered learners increased by 11.1 percent from 2016 to 2017, with 612,513 New Zealanders undertaking some form of tertiary study. This shows that more Kiwis are embracing the notion of lifelong learning and taking advantage of the education and training opportunities available.
Contributing to this growth is the government’s commitment to the ongoing development of New Zealanders through investment in tertiary education, technical and vocational training, and apprenticeships. The government invests in these sectors to increase the skill levels of New Zealand’s workforce and to help the nation remain competitive in an ever-changing global economy.
Opportunities Available
New Zealand offers a range of education and training opportunities for those pursuing lifelong learning. These include:
- Tertiary level study at universities, polytechnics and institutes of technology.
- Vocational training opportunities through apprenticeships and employer-based training.
The government also offers financial support to those wanting to pursue lifelong learning. Financial aid is available in the form of student loans, student allowances, and grants for those who qualify.
The government has also invested heavily in the development of technology to make learning easier and more accessible for all New Zealanders. Courses are now available online and can be completed from the comfort of your own home. This provides more flexibility for those who are unable to attend traditional courses due to work or family commitments.
Benefits of Lifelong Learning
The benefits of lifelong learning are numerous. Not only does it help you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your field, but it can also lead to career progression and salary increases. As well, continued learning can help you stay engaged in the workplace and can lead to greater job satisfaction.
Lifelong learning is also important for personal growth and development. By expanding your knowledge base, you can develop a greater understanding of the world around you and become more confident in facing life’s challenges. It can help you to broaden your horizons and pursue interests that you may not have had the opportunity to explore before.
Overall, lifelong learning can be a rewarding and enriching experience for New Zealanders. By taking advantage of the many opportunities available, Kiwis can enhance their professional and personal lives and increase their contributions to society.
