Whitireia and WelTec vaccination policy keeps campus communities safe in 2022
With ākonga numbers growing daily for programmes starting in early 2022, and the ongoing priority to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of our Whitireia and WelTec whānau, it has been decided that all kaimahi (staff), ākonga (learners), and manuhiri (visitors) attending Whitireia and WelTec campuses will need to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 from February 7, Whitireia and WelTec Chief Executive Mark Oldershaw says.
This decision was made after consultation with local community, kaimahi, ākonga, iwi partners, and Pacific communities.
“One of Whitireia and WelTec’s key values is to be responsive to our communities,” says Mr Oldershaw. “We have listened and have acted to ensure all campuses are a safe place to study and learn, while remaining welcoming to our communities.
“We see it as essential to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of all who step onto our multiple campuses. Following consultation, it was clear that this is what our communities, kaimahi, ākonga, and partners believe is the right thing to do.”
Whitireia and WelTec domestic enrolments for 2022 are looking strong with early indications of an increase over the last two years.
“There is growing recognition among school leavers, and those wishing to retrain, that vocational education prepares graduates for the workplace leading to immediate and diverse employment opportunities,” says Mr Oldershaw.
“We’re working closely with key sectors and employers across Wellington and the wider region to make sure we are taking a coordinated approach to meeting regional skills demands and creating pathways for our graduates directly into work.
“With NCEA results out this week, school leavers are considering their next steps. A strong grounding in vocational education can open doors and accelerate career progression.”
Many areas of study are also still free - covered by the Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF).
“We’re proud to be the vocational education provider to the wider Wellington region,” says Mr Oldershaw.“ And with strong enrolments across our campuses in 2022 we look forward to continuing to support learners into satisfying work and responding to regional employment needs while ensuring our kaimahi and ākonga feel welcome, safe, and looked after at all times.”
