A number of iwi representatives and representatives of other Māori organisations will gather at the University’s Te Herenga Waka Marae next week to sign relationship agreements. The event also marks the milestone of over 60 agreements between the University and iwi having been formalised since 2016.
The agreements are part of the University’s commitment to improve its engagement with key Māori stakeholders and to work in partnership with them to support the academic success of current and future Māori students, through activities such as internships and scholarships.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Māori) Professor Rawinia Higgins says the University is proud to be matching dollar-for-dollar the funding provided by Māori partners, to maximise the study and research opportunities for Māori students.
The first relationship agreements, known as He Herenga Tāngata, were signed in 2016 as part of the University’s Taihonoa programme.
“This year, we are delighted to be hosting more than 20 iwi organisations, representatives of Māori trusts and other organisations from around the country at the marae, signalling their commitment to working with us to support Māori education,” says Professor Higgins.
She says the University is also keen to develop research and internship partnerships with Māori. Representatives from iwi and other Maori organisations will have the opportunity to engage with staff from Victoria Business School, the Faculty of Architecture and Faculty of Science ahead of the ceremony.
The event also marks the presentation of the Te Tini a Rehua awards, which are given to the top Māori undergraduate student in each faculty.
“It is important to acknowledge the hard work and achievements of our Māori students and showcase this to the University and our wider communities,” says Professor Higgins.