The New Zealand government has announced a $1.2 billion funding package to support the restructuring of Te Pūkenga, the country's largest tertiary education provider. The move, outlined in the 2025 budget, aims to address longstanding concerns about the institution's financial sustainability and its ability to deliver quality education to students across the country. The funding will be used to modernize infrastructure, expand course offerings, and improve student support services. It also includes provisions for debt relief for students who have been affected by the institution's financial instability in recent years. Education Minister Penny Simmonds emphasized that the investment is a commitment to ensuring that Te Pūkenga can continue to provide high-quality education to New Zealanders. 'This is about securing the future of our tertiary education system and ensuring that students are not left behind,' she said in a statement. The announcement has been welcomed by student groups and education sector representatives, who have long called for increased investment in the tertiary education sector. However, some critics have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of the funding model and the potential for further financial strain on the government. The restructuring of Te Pūkenga is part of a broader effort to reform the tertiary education sector in New Zealand. The government has also announced plans to increase funding for other tertiary institutions and to introduce new measures to improve the quality of education and training across the country.