A Te Tiriti-led union.

Hau Taki Haere | Tertiary Update Vol 27, No 9

Te Hautū Kahurangi | Tertiary Education Union made history last week by becoming the first union in Aotearoa to embed co-governance into its rules.

From 1 January 2024, the TEU’s governing council will be comprised of equal representation between Tangata Māori and Tangata Tiriti. The change was approved by an overwhelming majority of those present at the union’s annual conference on Friday afternoon – an outcome that was met with a standing ovation followed by an outpouring of joy and accomplishment from delegates and elected officials on the conference floor.

Tumu Arataki | Māori Vice President Huhana Wātene says “it is an absolute honour and privilege to lead our Māori members into this exciting new Te Tiriti-led union. He mihi arohanunui kia koutou ngā mema Māori.”

“It is important to acknowledge those who have led and guided us on this journey: the late Dr Moana Jackson, our Kaumātua Kāhui – Tauheke Huirangi Waikerepuru, Whaea Ka Daniels and Whaea Mere Broughton, our current Kaumātua Kāhui, Matua Hone Sadler and Taua Roimata Kirikiri and our Te Pou Tuara, Lichelle Kerei.”

“However, I want to make note of a key leader from the outset, TEU's former Te Pou Tuarā, Lee Cooper. Ngā mihi arohanunui kia koutou ngā rangatira. Also, I want to personally acknowledge Bill Rogers, longstanding member from Northtec, part of the ASTE roopu, past VP Māori, past chair of the Tiriti Partnership roopu and our two current Tumu Awhina: Vicky Young from University of Waikato and the newest Tumu Awhina, Jonyne Mariu-Komene from Te Whare Wānanga o Wairaka—Unitec.”

“I orea te tuatara ka puta ki waho – a problem is solved by continuing to find solutions” – this is how I see us moving, improving, and providing for all members of Te Hautū Kahurangi | Tertiary Education Union. He harikoa ahau, feeling happy and proud of our members and our union.”

Also in this update:

• When is Late to the Party, Too Late to the Party?
• The Budget and Equity in Te Pūkenga
• Budget 2023 is an equity enabler for Pasifika
• Too little, too late

Other stories:

A good start - staff and students welcome funding boost – TEU

More pressure for universities in Budget 2023 – Universities NZ

‘Frustrated’ students march against cuts – ODT

'We have a target on our backs': University of Otago staff protest over hundreds of possible job cuts – Stuff