Throughout the roadshow, faculty-led information sessions will be conducted and scholarships and support will be showcased, with food provided. The events also encourage alumni and graduates to explore postgraduate studies.
“We’re determined to go out to the communities, to humanise the university experience for our people,” says Associate Professor Hon. Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Pasifika). “Not everyone has the opportunity to go to Wellington for Open Day, so this way we bring everything to them.”
“Our people dream big and aim high,” said Dame Winnie at the 2023 event in Levin. “Built on the legacy of your parents and grandparents who came here for more opportunities and a better life.”
For each event, the Pasifika team, academic staff from across disciplines, current students, and alumni will provide information about university life, the support available for Pasifika people, and share their own experiences.
“We had wonderful engagement with the families and communities at the roadshow last year, and people are looking forward to us continuing these events,” says Dame Winnie.
The roadshow events are arranged between the University, the Electoral Commission, and the mayors of the respective local councils. The Electoral Commission will be there to help people make sure they’re enrolled to vote for both local body and central government elections. This presents an excellent opportunity for the Pasifika community to actively participate in the democratic process and have their voices heard in shaping the present and future.
“I’m excited about the collaboration between our Pasifika communities and our staff—both Pasifika and non-Pasifika—here at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington,” says Dr Stuart Marshall, Associate Dean (Academic Development, Engineering).
“Anyone can come to university at any age, there’s great support and a whole host of options for study, whether you’re joining University for the first time, coming back to complete unfinished business, or going even further and exploring postgraduate work.”
Pasifika Roadshow events are held between 6-8pm at the following venues:
Thursday 1 August—Porirua, Pataka Art & Museum
Tuesday 1 August—Levin, Horowhenua District Council
Wednesday 7 August—Lower Hutt, Walter Nash Stadium
Thursday 8 August—Wellington, Ākau Tangi Sports Centre
Tuesday 13 August—Wairarapa, Pasifika Trust O Wairarapa
Wednesday 14 August—Upper Hutt, Whirinaki Whare Taonga