19893 (2026). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister for Tertiary Education

19893 (2026). Hon Dr Ayesha Verrall to the Minister for Tertiary Education: What measures, if any, will be put in place to support the retention and wellbeing of graduate entry students at the proposed University of Waikato medical school?

Hon Penny Simmonds: The University of Waikato is still working through its accreditation for a new primary medical programme. However, I am advised the university will establish a comprehensive student support programme that is designed to meet the needs of graduate-entry learners and ensure student wellbeing and retention. As with all funded tertiary education organisations, the University of Waikato will also be monitored on its educational performance indicators and activities to improve learner success and achievement as part of their Investment Plan, as well as being required to adhere to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021. For completeness, I note that the New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine is not intended to commence operation until 2029, and therefore performance commitments relating to the retention of students will be confirmed closer to the programme’s commencement.