VARSITY COMMISSION

New Zealand Times, Volume LII, Issue 12196, 22 July 1925, Page 8

VARSITY COMMISSION

PROFESSORS’ PENSIONS MAGISTRATES' BENEFITS WANTED. Rr Press Association. X DUNEDIN, July a. 1 Professor- Benson, in giving, evidence on behblf of the Otago branch of the 'University Teachers’ Association of New Zealand, endorsed the representations made by the general executive of the association. Professor Benson pointed out that there was. go regular grading of positions, and especially in regard to ju- . nior members of the staff. There was no system of promotion with increase - in salary, with sbniqrity- assuring a reasonable competence, if they remained in the University service. In the professor's absence, he said, it was greatly 1 in the interest of efficiency that university ’-teachers should be encouraged to travel apd get fresh ideas and inspiration, but under the present scale of remuneration ’ they should not be expected- te travel entirely at their own expense. The Government - scheme for superannuation *of teachers was unsuitable. Professors' pensions were never more than two-thirds of those given to magistrates for precisely the same contributions. The association was strongly ot opinion that professors should get the same benefits as magistrates. Failing this, professors should have the option of entering the Government, scheme or an approved form of insurance. It was also desired that a reciprocity arrangement whereby university teachers entering or leaving New Zealand could transfer -former superannuation interests from or to Britain and the other Dominions. , WORK OF W.E.A. Dr. Thompson said the Court of Convocation was unanimously against four universities. The question of the standard of the matriculation examination was a very burning one There was a unanimity of ooroion on the part of the Professorial Board and the Court of Convocation .that, the matriculation examination had been divorced from its true function. It had failed to be an examination which qualified for entrance to the university, and had become a mere leaving examination for the schools. ; Dr. Thompson said he was president ot the local branch of the Workers' Educational Association, but so much evidence had been heard with reference to that organisation that he did not consider it necessary to bring any more forward The chairman: I think we are seized with the importance of the Educational Association’s work. Mrs Park and Mrs Barrowclough, representing the Home Economics Association, urged the advisability of bringing the work of the association under a ‘scheme’ of university extension lectures. Mrs Park said that the association had been unable, so far, to go into the country districts and hold schools, and such :a thing would be vpry desirable; but it - would mean that the expenses of several women, would have to be paid. . The association had during the winter session held evening classes for those contemplating marriage and those working during the day. Mr Tate ’ expressed the opinion that if the association utilised the resources it had at’ present it could extend its work very . much. It was ■ a vigorous body, and if it was self-reliant it was likely to develop farther.