Kanapu is a Māori-led initiative on a mission to ignite Research, Science and Innovation (RSI) talent and leadership
across Te Ao Māori. Māori researchers, scientists and knowledge-holders are fundamental to a vibrant RSI system but the
evidence shows they are largely undervalued and unsupported.
Kanapu - which means lightning or instantaneous glow - will strike at the obstacles that block Māori pathways into the
RSI system. Existing professional development and leadership programmes do not address the unique needs and aspirations
of the Māori RSI workforce, nor offer fit for purpose training strategies and learning solutions. The RSI system is also
fragmented, making it challenging for Māori communities, businesses and organisations to connect with the right people
to meet their own research needs and aspirations.
Designed and led by Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga (NPM) Māori Centre of Research Excellence (CoRE), Kanapu is funded by the
Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to connect and nurture a diverse puna (pool) of Māori talent in the
wider RSI system and expand the impact of Vision Mātauranga.
“Kanapu is a further way the Government is strengthening the benefits that Māori knowledge, culture, values and
worldview bring to the research system. This initiative will enhance the employment outcomes of Māori in the research
workforce, and will benefit the whole research workforce,” Research, Science and Innovation Minister Dr Ayesha Verrall
says.
Pou Matarua|Co-Director Professor Tahu Kukutai adds: “Ngā Pae is excited to be taking this next step to building the
foundations for flourishing Māori futures. There are huge untapped RSI opportunities for our communities - Kanapu will
help realise them”.
Kanapu will be located at the University of Waikato with Pouhere | Executive Director Vanessa Clark (Waikato; Ngāti
Tiipa, Ngāti Tahinga, Ngāti Āmaru) at the helm. Over six years Kanapu will work with Māori researchers, scientists and
knowledge-holders to design bespoke initiatives to meet the programme’s goals to:strengthen connections between the RSI system and hapū, iwi, and Māori communitiessupport Māori scientists, researchers and knowledge-holders to thrive as Māori within the RSI systemprovide opportunities for Māori scientists, researchers, and knowledge-holders to access the right resources and
supports to develop their talent and leadership skillsleverage and develop customised tools and resources to support RSI system navigation
NPM is Aotearoa’s only Māori CoRE and is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. NPM has a sustained track record of
nurturing Māori talent and serving Māori communities.