March 22, 2026

#tauira: UCOL ākonga share in $35,000 scholarship boost for trades and construction careers

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 22, 2026

Students at the Universal College of Learning (UCOL) have received a significant boost to support their studies, with $35,000 awarded through the Freemasons Willson Lewis Scholarship in its 10th year.

A total of 18 Manawatū-based ākonga were recognised in the latest round of funding, which is aimed at supporting learners pursuing careers in the construction and building sectors.

The scholarships are part of a long-standing partnership between Freemasons, UCOL and industry groups, designed to help develop skills within the construction workforce and strengthen pathways into the trades.

The initiative has been running since 2016 and continues to focus on supporting students undertaking qualifications such as architectural technology, construction management and quantity surveying.

Funding is provided as direct financial assistance, helping recipients manage the costs associated with study, including course fees, materials and living expenses. The support is intended to ease financial pressure and allow students to focus more fully on completing their qualifications.

The milestone 10th year of the scholarship highlights its growing impact, with increasing numbers of ākonga benefiting from the programme as demand for skilled workers in the construction sector continues to rise.

Industry partners say the scholarships not only support individual learners, but also contribute to building a stronger workforce, with flow-on benefits for employers, communities and the wider economy.

For UCOL, the programme reflects a broader commitment to creating opportunities for students to succeed in high-demand industries, while supporting regional development and skills growth.

As Aotearoa continues to face workforce shortages in construction and infrastructure, initiatives like the Freemasons Willson Lewis Scholarship are being seen as a practical investment in the next generation of skilled workers.