The primary purpose of this project is to provide a structured skill recognition framework that addresses several critical issues faced by the more than 19,000 Pacific workers participating in Aotearoa New Zealand’s RSE scheme:  

  • Acknowledges and formalises the skills gained by RSE workers through training and employment in New Zealand.
  • Facilitates better job opportunities for RSE workers upon their return to their home countries, allowing them to leverage their New Zealand experience effectively.  
  • Provides a clear understanding of the skills available in the RSE worker pool, enhancing workforce quality and productivity for New Zealand industries

Key Steps:

The RSE Skills Recognition Project is progressing, now supported by Food and Fibre Cove. Their partnership is key to achieving our objectives. 

  • March 2025: Steering Group Meeting & Finalise Communications Plan 
  • March – April 2025: Stakeholder Engagement & Training Needs Assessments 
  • May 2025: Finalise Skills Pathways 
  • June 2025: Submit Recommendations for New Credentials 
  • TBC: Launch Recognition Agreements 

Objectives: 

  • Map qualifications on NZQCF and Pacific Qualifications Frameworks, identifying gaps. 
  • Propose skills pathways and recommend new credentials. 
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to establish mutual credential recognition agreements. 

This month, we’ve been focused on planning, assembling the Skills Team and Steering Group, and starting initial assessments. The first in-person Steering Group meeting will be on March 17. We are also finalising our communications plan, which will be reviewed by the Steering Group in mid-March and approved by month’s end. 

Latest update:

The project continues to progress steadily, with the mapping of qualifications now underway across the NZQCF, Samoa Qualifications Framework (SQF), and Vanuatu Qualifications Framework (VQF). This mapping helps to identify both transferable and technical skills already covered by existing standards while also highlighting gaps and differences in credit values and levels between the frameworks.

An initial version of the skills-mapping was presented to the Steering Group at its meeting on 26 May, alongside a draft proposal for a framework and a report outlining credential options, including the use of digital badges (an online symbol or credential that shows someone has achieved a particular skill or learning outcome). These tools are being explored as fit-for-purpose solutions to recognise the skills of RSE workers in both Aotearoa and the Pacific.

Focus is turning toward validation, with plans underway to engage RSE workers directly and hear their perspectives. We are preparing an inclusive and respectful approach to capture these voices in partnership with industry and community leaders.

Horticulture NZ is helping to broker connections for further stakeholder engagement.