Council and UCOL work together - 8/08/2005

A Memorandum of Understanding has formally been signed after receiving formal endorsement by Councillors from both organisations.

Mayor Michael Laws said Council staff are working alongside UCOL on areas of common interest.

"Having this formal Agreement builds on the good co-operation and sharing of knowledge and resources that is occurring between our two organisations. The 'Heart of the City' project acknowledges the unique value of our heritage buildings and their environment, and the need for community access to civic facilities. Within the Heart of the City area we will be looking at the need to upgrade, reposition and increase some of the facilities.

"There is real potential for this project and UCOL's Whanganui Converge project to overlap, and the Memorandum of Understanding is about agreeing to work together for the mutual benefit of both projects. We see the provision of education opportunities as an essential element for a healthy and successful community."

UCOL Chief Executive Paul McElroy said he was pleased at the level of co-operation taking place and UCOL is very keen to work with community leaders on the best possible solution for the future of Whanganui UCOL.

"The purpose of our Whanganui Converge project is to create an integrated campus that provides sustainable tertiary education. The first phase of this was completed with the development of an Education Plan with the help of the Wanganui community. Based on the information in the Education Plan and recent government announcements about funding for tertiary education organisations, we are continuing to analyse our options. We view our role as important to the fundamental fabric of the Wanganui community, and it makes sense that we work with the Wanganui District Council to make sure that all possible avenues for shared resources and facilities are explored. We want the best possible outcome for our students, staff, and the community that will last into the future."

Representatives from both organisations will be meeting regularly to advance matters of mutual interest.