June 24, 2016
Fund to stimulate Maori science
Better use of Maori land, improving fisheries and research into traditional Maori plant medicines are some of the projects to benefit from the latest Te Punaha Hihiko – Vision Matauranga Capability Fund investment round.
Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce says almost $4 million will be invested in 33 projects over the next two years, more than twice as much as was handed out in the 2015 round.
The aim of the fund is not just the projects but to grow the skills of Maori researchers and foster links between Maori and research organisations.
Cawthron Institute, GNS Science, Landcare Research, and Lincoln and Massey universities are among the institutions working with iwi and Maori groups and businesses on the projects.
Landcare is working with Te Runanga o Ngati Porou to identify land use opportunities in its East Coast rohe, while Wakatu Incorporation is working with research firm iPansophy on a similar project for the top of the South Island.
Massey secured $100,000 to work with several schools and kura on increasing the engagement of Maori pupils with science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
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