Loma-Linda Tasi - Whitireia.

Mālō le soifua maua, ma le lagi e mamā

I have worked the tertiary education and health sectors collectively over three decades. In each sector the need to advocate for the support of Pacific aiga/whanau, kaimahi and our collective duty to Pacific ākonga of every education and workforce sector is important.

The Pacific peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand are a fast growing and youthful population, and a significant part of the Aotearoa New Zealand workforce that will be increasingly realised over the next few decades. The increased funding injections into education is a welcomed relief, for the immediate part, that aims to address the current burden that is experienced by education service providers.

Addressing equity requires relevant cultural knowledge and adequate resource within the tertiary sector, in particular with the current reformation of vocational education. Equally important is the support for kamahi and capacity to deliver quality and effective education that is ākonga-centred.

Strengthening identity brings massive returns to Aotearoa New Zealand’s economy that is embodied through a thriving, prosperous and healthy community, led by resilient individuals and interconnected communities that collectively promote wellbeing.