Interest in trade courses grows
A record 55 Maori and Pasifica students are enrolled at Witt this year, thanks to scholarships administered by Taranaki Futures.
Sandra Lichtwark oversees the scheme, which she says is made possible because of government funding.
‘‘There’s a lot of money involved, hundreds of thousands this year, that we’re giving out on scholarships.’’
New Plymouth MP Jonathan Young said the Government was committed to ensuring Maori and Pasifica students got the essential skills they needed to succeed.
‘‘Taranaki Futures is a big part of why they are succeeding. They mentor as well as facilitate and that’s a huge strength, especially as their people are so passionate about what they do and they go the extra mile.’’
Lichtwark took up the role of Taranaki Maori & Pasifika Trades Training Co-ordinator in April last year and said the scheme was a partnership between Taranaki Futures and Witt. Taranaki Futures was contracted to administer the scholarships while Witt delivered the programmes.
She is based on campus at Witt, at Te Piere o te rangi marae, and is full of praise for Witt’s support services team.
‘‘They are fantastic. If the students need help with literacy, numeracy, or counselling, a nurse, or chaplain they get it. About 25 per cent are Pasifica students and the balance Maori. The most popular courses are carpentry and electrical at this stage.’’
Part of the criteria for students to be accepted is they must have whanau support. ’’That’s really important. Those applying for scholarships must name at least two whanau support members and I interview them all together, to ensure they are all clear about what I expect from them.’’
That includes a minimum of 90 per cent attendance rate of classes and 100 per cent of all cultural components that are organised. ’’Non-compliance will bring consequences. The students must take responsibility journey,’’ she says.
Wilson is the Industry Engagement Manager for Taranaki Futures. She helps students prepare for interviews and with presenting polished CVs. ‘‘I also try and place the students in work experience in businesses related to their courses and help them with finding employment when they finish their courses.’’ for their