Agreement strengthens iwi education, business links
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua and Te Whare Wānanga o Te Tau Ihu o te Waka a Maui (Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, NMIT) have this week signed a memorandum of understanding to improve access to education and retraining opportunities, as well as give local students pathways to employment.
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua Pouwhakahaere Shane Graham said the agreement was of mutual long-term benefit to both parties.
“This connects directly into our strategic goals as an iwi,” he said.
“It means we can increase access to quality education options in our region for our whanau, hapū and iwi. Together with the scholarships we offer, it provides options for people to re-train or upskill, which is incredibly important in the time of Covid-19.
“In addition, our iwi businesses can provide employment opportunities to NMIT students and graduates – meaning local people can get local jobs.”
The agreement means Ngāti Rārua and NMIT will work together to:
- Promote Ngāti Rārua and their businesses to NMIT students who align with the iwi, kaupapa and or businesses of Ngāti Rārua
- Promote tertiary education at NMIT to iwi, hapū, whānau,staff and haporiof Ngāti Rārua
- Drive increased participation in Ngāti Rārua scholarships and in tertiary education at NMIT
Mr Graham said the agreement was long term, but had flexibility. “However the world may change, good education leads to meaningful work, I’m delighted NMIT and Ngāti Rārua can work together to ensure we make the most of our local talent and our opportunities.”
E ai ki ngaa korero e tika ana, kia atawhai i te tangata i muri i au, kia pai te noho.
NMIT Chief Executive Officer Wayne Jackson said the agreement strengthened the institution’s commitment to the local community.
“More than ever we need strong links between community, education and employment. This agreement will help us achieve that.”
