Pilot encourages and supports Maaori innovation

A unique collaboration and relationship between Wintec, Te Waananga o Aotearoa and Waikato-Tainui, has resulted in a 35-week Maaori Trade Training Pilot which provides the opportunity for Maaori students to complete a modern apprenticeship in carpentry. It is the first time the three organisations have collaborated in such a project.

In March this year, the pilot was launched after receiving financial assistance from the Tertiary Education Commission’s ‘Encouraging and Supporting Innovation’ fund.

16 Maaori men, 13 from Waikato-Tainui and three from Ngaa Puhi and Ngaati Kahungunu, were welcomed to the pilot designed to give young Maaori the job skills, work experience and qualifications to a level allowing them to work in the construction industry, or undertake further study.

The carpentry and theory component is being taught by Wintec, and Te Waananga o Aotearoa focuses on aspects of tikanga Maaori. Waikato-Tainui Marae have been providing opportunities for the students to gain practical work experience, and Waikato-Tainui grants have also been made available to registered tribal members on the programme.

Students are currently working on a 112sq. mtr. classroom which will be transported to Tokanui as part of AgResearch’s new Dairy Research and Development Farm. An initiative that aims to trial leading-edge technology and grow the sector, the farm will also provide educational opportunities in co-operation with Wintec and the coalition of 21st century schools.

Students have also been involved with two Marae DIY projects at Raglan and Te Aroha, and they recently completed a gardening project at Tuurangawaewae Marae in Ngaaruawaahia with plans to build a new access ramp at the Ngaa Miro Health Centre opposite the Marae.

Tribal Development Manager for Waikato-Tainui Marae Tukere says the tribe is focused on supporting initiatives that enhance the skills and knowledge of their tribal members. She says she is also committed to building and strengthening relationships and partnerships with organisations that share the aspirations of the tribe’s education strategy.

Director of Maaori for Wintec Hera White said the new approach to the provision of trade training has given Te Waananga o Aotearoa and Wintec an opportunity to assist tauira (students) to achieve their aspirations while responding to the needs of the community and to the industry.

“This is an opportunity for our organisations to work together, partner with iwi, and link with industry to consider skills training in other vocational areas in the future,” said Mrs White.

Following a full evaluation of the pilot in 2010, all three organisations are keen to explore the potential for future trade training across other areas.