Pasifika funding announcement welcomed

25 May 2006

Manukau Institute of Technology welcomes Pasifika funding announcement

Manukau Institute of Technology has welcomed the New Zealand Government’s commitment to revitalise Pacific languages through a three-year funding programme.

“The government’s announcement to allocate $600,000 over the next three years - towards ensuring that the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau languages are kept alive in New Zealand - is very important to the vibrant and diverse communities that make up our country,” says MIT chief executive, Dr Geoffrey Page.

“MIT is committed to serving our Pasifika students and communities, and we are fully aware of how vital it is that our students’ cultural heritage continues to thrive and live in New Zealand.”

Along with programmes and courses tailored to meet its diverse communities’ needs, MIT also boasts staff members who speak the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau languages on site, ensuring the institute is able to provide the appropriate support to Pasifika students.

“A significant percentage of our students are from Pasifika communities and we have many support programmes and initiatives in place to embrace and celebrate their cultures. Our Pasifika graduation ceremony, for example, is a highlight of the year for our successful students and their families,” says Dr Page.

MIT is a premier sponsor of the successful Thrive Pasifika event, organised by the Pacific Business Trust.

ENDS

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