Nine Auckland-based student teachers have been awarded Kupe Scholarships by Associate Education Minister Kelvin Davis in
a ceremony held in Parliament, Wellington, today.
The prestigious scholarships recognise highly accomplished Māori and Pacific students and support them to complete their
teaching qualification and gain further success teaching in New Zealand.
Ministry of Education’s Deputy Secretary, Early Learning and Student Achievement, Ellen MacGregor-Reid says, "the Kupe
scholars are highly-accomplished."
Each year, 30 Kupe Scholarships are awarded to Māori and Pacific students based on strong academic success and
demonstrable leadership experience in their respective communities.
"These individuals are passionate about their respective communities, passionate about the kaupapa and will be welcomed
to the profession when they graduate," she says.
Each recipient has an incredible back story of drive and purpose that has got them here today. "I congratulate them and
look forward to hearing more from them in the future."
Kupe scholarship recipients will have their course fees paid; receive a $15,000 study allowance, professional mentoring
and assistance with finding a job. The scholarship is worth over $25,000.
More than 70 applications were received for the 30 available scholarships.
Auckland Scholars:
Ungatea Sefesi, Tonga/New Zealand European,The University of Auckland, Graduate Diploma of Teaching; Saniata Tafatu,
Niue/Kiribati,The University of Auckland, Graduate Diploma of Teaching; Loata Tiapapa Cook Island/Samoa, Auckland
University of Technology (AUT), Masters of Teaching and Learning; James Auina Kaleti, Samoa/Tokelau, The University of
Auckland, Bachelor of Education (Teaching); Tania Rangiheuea, Māori - Te Arawa, Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Manu, Auckland
University of Technology (AUT), Graduate Diploma of Teaching; Te Anini Young, Māori - Ngai Tūhoe, Ngāti Awa, Kai Tahu,
The University of Auckland, Graduate Diploma of Teaching; Liam Ngaariki Muru, New Zealand European/Māori - Tainui, Ngāti
Ranginui, Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Bachelor of Teaching; ECE Pasifika Melina Amos,Tanzanian/New Zealand
European/Māori - Kai Tahu, The University of Auckland, Bachelor of Education (Teaching); Rhonda Togipau, Samoa/Niue, New
Zealand Tertiary College, Graduate Diploma of Teaching.
ENDS