April 14, 2015
Runanga helps train youth workers
Four staff members of an innovative Maori education initiative are among the 18 students graduating today with a Bachelor of Youth Development from the Wellington Institute of Technology WelTec.
Te Runanganui o Taranaki Whanui ki te Upoko o te Ika's Tamaiti Whangai programme linked sport, academic achievement and youth development in a wrap-around programme coming out of Waiwhetu Marae in Lower Hutt.
Kaumatua Dr Kara Puketapu says today's graduation is a great example of how people can commit themselves to academic preparation even in their late 20s and 30s.
David Lomax left school at 15 with no qualifications and became a national and international rugby league player before restarting his academic career.
The other Tamaiti Whangai graduates are Hinemoa Priest, who is also a Weltec kaiwhakahaere Maori, and siblings Rangi and Susan Luke.
WelTec chief executive Dr Linda Sissons says the new Youth Development degree is an attempt by the sector to improve youth work practice and the skill level of practitioners.
There are an estimated 3000 youth workers employed in New Zealand as well as many volunteers.
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