training Maori tradesmen

Te Ao Hou, Winter 1952, Page 56

training Maori tradesmen Introduced by Mr M. R. Jones, the discussion on employment centred on the problem of getting Maori boys apprenticed to trades. Mr Jones described the department's efforts to build hostels in the cities in which the boys could be housed while undergoing apprenticeships. He made it clear that the limiting factor on the number of Maori tradesmen who could be trained was suitable city accommodation. He also stressed the necessity of the boys getting their school certificates, or at least two years post-primary education, if they wished to be apprenticed to trades. Chairwoman of the committee was Mrs H. Phillips. The Conference passed a remit commending the government for its hostel policy and ‘respectfully suggested that it be fuller implemented.’ It also discussed: The necessity for relatives taking greater care of youths coming into the cities. Need for more efficiency by officials handling information about Maori school leavers for whom employment is to be found.