Waikato-Tainui Distributes Education Grants

3 April 2013

Waikato-Tainui Distributes Education Grants

More than 600 Waikato-Tainui descendants are set to benefit from the distribution of nearly $1 million in education grants and scholarships.

Waikato-Tainui has announced the approval of 653 applications from tribal members for financial assistance towards education costs. The grants will go to full and part-time students studying at certificate level through to graduate degrees.

The majority of applications are for study at Bachelor degree level while 46 are at Master degree level, and 12 at PHD level.

In total, $950,833 in grants and scholarships will be distributed.

Waikato-Tainui chief executive Parekawhia McLean said the number of grants approved reflected the tribe’s focus on education as a pathway to a positive future for tribal members.

“Our goal is that our tribal members are well-educated and financially secure; that they are reaching their potential and able to achieve at their highest level,” said Ms McLean.

“These education grants, which we are able to offer through the on-going success of our commercial entity Tainui Group Holdings, are one part of our tribal-wide strategy to build the capacity of whaanau to support them to improve the quality of their lives.

“Our strategy, which includes health, employment and training programmes, cultural initiatives and marae assistance, as well as education, is aimed at the holistic development of our people.

“Our vision is that Waikato-Tainui members are committed to the Kiingitanga, fluent in te reo Maaori, strong in tikanga Maaori, and are well-qualified and have financial certainty.”

Ms McLean said the tribe had refined its education strategy to ensure it supported development of the skills required to fill gaps in the employment market and to meet the future needs of in-demand industries and sectors. Priority was now given to the sciences (including environmental), business management, early childhood teaching, engineering, surgery, medicine, health science, and nursing. Fostering maatauranga Maaori and te reo Maaori education continued as a priority focus.

Education grants are offered annually and Waikato-Tainui descendants are encouraged to apply. Applications must be received by the 28th February each year. Application details are available at www.waikatotainui.com.

Waikato-Tainui Te Kauhanganui Inc
www.waikatotainui.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ko-Waikato-Te-Awa-Ko-Waikato-Te-Iwi/288996931234315

ENDS

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