Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Education Minister Erica Stanford have reaffirmed their commitment to overhauling New Zealand's National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) system, calling it a step toward delivering a 'world class' education for students.

During a visit to Botany Downs Secondary College on Thursday, Luxon and Stanford emphasized that the changes are designed to ensure students receive a qualification that aligns with global standards. The overhaul, which includes the replacement of NCEA Level 1 with foundation literacy and numeracy tests, and Levels 2 and 3 with a New Zealand Certificate of Education and an Advanced Certificate, aims to streamline the assessment process and improve transparency.

Under the new system, students will be required to take five subjects and pass at least four to earn each certificate. Grading will be based on a 100-point scale, with grades ranging from A to E. The move is intended to simplify the current complex credit-based system, which critics have said allows for 'too much credit counting.'

Education Minister Erica Stanford highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in the overhaul, stating that AI is already being used to mark NCEA literacy and numeracy corequisite exams. She noted that the use of AI would expand further as the Certificate of Education replaces NCEA Level 2 by 2029. However, she also emphasized the importance of public feedback before moving forward with implementation, saying, 'We have thought about this very carefully. Don't want to rush it.'

Prime Minister Luxon spoke to students during the visit, describing them as the future leaders who will 'drive New Zealand forward from here.' The changes, he said, are not only about improving the qualifications framework but also about preparing students for the evolving demands of the global workforce.

While the overhaul has been met with cautious optimism from some educators and unions, others remain concerned about the pace of change and the potential impact on students and teachers. The government has invited all stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed system, ensuring that the transition is as smooth and inclusive as possible.

As the new system moves closer to implementation, the focus remains on ensuring that the changes are not only effective but also equitable and accessible to all students across the country.