8•16•40 – New Zealand's future workforce crisis #

Aotearoa New Zealand is at a crossroads. The decisions we make today will shape the future of our economy. 

Today, only 8% of STEM tertiary students in this country are Māori or Pasifika. However, in the next 16 years, these communities will make up 40% of our under-40 workforce. 

Our 8•16•40 Crisis campaign shines a light on this urgent challenge, showing why STEM skills are critical across every industry — and how the business, government and education sectors must work together to close the gap. 

Through bold insights, real-world stories and practical solutions, we are calling on leaders to invest early, think long-term and ensure a future where all rangatahi can thrive in the industries that will define tomorrow. 

Dive into our five-part series below to explore what’s at stake — and what we can do about it.