TRAINING OF YOUTHS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 87, Issue 62, 16 March 1943, Page 4

TRAINING OF YOUTHS

VIEWS OF ELECTRICIANS’ INSTITUTE

The question of youths between the ages of 18 and 19 years serving in the Armed Forces, the training of apprentices, and also rehabilitation problems were among the matters discussed at the seventh annual conference in Palmerston North recently of the New Zealand Institute of Electricians. The Dominion president, Mr. Martin S. Smith (Wanganui), presided. The conference was opened by the city electrical engineer, Palmerston North, Mr. D. Nixon, who said the objects of the institute formed a commendable basis for any organisation. The institute, he said, was concerned with the advancement of the science of electrical among members by the dissemination of trade knowledge, and also the training of the apprentice who was the electrical engineer of to-morrow. During conference discussions it was stated that the training of apprentices was a question claiming the attention of several professions and trades. So numerous were the counter attractions for youths that the morel serious side of study for their future was relegated very much into the background. As far as the electrical trade was concerned, it was felt that the position was becoming extremely serious and claiming the attention o» the trade and Government departments alike. After discussing the question at considerable length the conference decided on a certain line of action which, with the co-operation of the Government, is expected to bring about an improvement.

The election of institute council and officers for the year resulted as follows:—President, Mr. Martin S. Smith (Wanganui); vice-president. Mr. L. G. Mahoney (Mangaweka); council, Messrs. F. F. Gilmore (Wellington). A. Curlew (Wellington). R. C. Kanos (Napier). R. H. Nairn (Palmerston North), and A. E. Morris (Hastings); secretary, Mr. S. Cowley (Wanganui).