On the eve of its formal graduation ceremonies this week, Whitireia and WelTec | Te Pūkenga recognised the success of
Pacific learners with its signature Pacific Graduation Celebration event, held at its Porirua campus.
Pacific graduands gathered with family and the community to give thanks, acknowledge the journey traveled, and celebrate
together.
Speakers at the event included guest attendee Gerardine Clifford-Lidstone, Secretary for Pacific Peoples, and student
representative Vasemaca Naborisi, who has just completed her postgraduate certificate in primary care specialising in
nursing.
Commenting on the celebration, Ms Clifford-Lidstone said: “On behalf of the Ministry for Pacific Peoples, I am very
proud to support this acknowledgement of Pacific success and excellence in vocational education, which will result in
our graduates entering meaningful careers.
“Seeing Pacific peoples succeed in vocational education aligns with our Pacific Aotearoa Lalanga Fou goals to have
prosperous Pacific communities and confident, thriving, resilient Pacific people.
“Malo lava on your achievements to date and may you continue to improve outcomes for Māori and Pacific communities
through tautua – service.”
Jean Mitaera, Chief Advisor, Centre for Pacific Health and Social Practice at Whitireia and WelTec | Te Pūkenga said of
the occasion: “The success of each Pacific graduate is immediately impactful on their families and communities.
“That is the significance of vocational education – relevant, accessible, with the potential to change lives.”
Mark Oldershaw, Manahautū, Executive Director of Whitireia and WelTec | Te Pūkenga said: “For many, the journey to
qualifying is challenging, with work, family and life often becoming a necessary priority over study.
“So, to reach the significant milestone of completion, after much sacrifice, hard work, and with tremendous support from
family and friends, is definitely worth celebrating.
“I am immensely proud of all of our graduates and it has been an honour to join this joyful recognition of Pacific
success.”Further information from Whitireia and WelTec | Te Pūkenga
Follow in the footsteps of our graduates! Mid-year starting programmes are open for application at whitireiaweltec.ac.nz
Whitireia and WelTec | Te Pūkenga are committed to supporting Pacific learners and their academic success. Pacific
learners are a vital part of community life at Whitireia and WelTec | Te Pūkenga. We have programmes, networks and a
strong pacific team who work across our Porirua, Petone and Wellington campuses to help you succeed.