Scholarship a great boost to two teachers
Two Far North student teachers were awarded a Kupe Scholarship by Associate Education Minister Tim Macindoe during a ceremony held in Parliament.
North Hokianga’s Jasmine Pirini and Muritere Apiata from Kawakawa received their scholarships - which recognise highly accomplished Maori and Pacific students and support them to complete their teaching qualification - in Wellington on July 19.
Ministry of Education’s spokesperson Ellen MacGregorReid says the Kupe Scholarship continues to attract high calibre scholars.
Each year, 30 of them are awarded to Maori or Pasifika students based on strong academic success and leadership experience in their communities.
‘‘These individuals are passionate about their respective communities.
‘‘The scholarship gives them the opportunity to continue making a difference.
‘‘Behind each recipient is an incredible back story of drive and purpose that has got them here today and they should be congratulated for their efforts.’’
Pirini and Apiata will have their course fees paid, receive a $15,000 study allowance, professional mentoring and assistance with finding a job.
Apiata, who affiliates with Ngapuhi and Te Rarawa, is currently studying at Waikato University towards a graduate diploma in teaching secondary school.
She is a fluent te reo Maori speaker and holds a Naa Mana Whakairo a Toi Bachelor of Maori Performing Arts degree from Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi.
She is also a well known performing kapa haka artist.
Apiata says she’s very honoured to receive the scholarship.
‘‘It supports me in being able to pursue my studies and supports my family financially to make that happen.’’
Pirini, of Te Rarawa, Te Aupouri and Ngati Hine descent, is an environmental conservation educator and mother with a lifelong interest in the wellbeing of children and education.
She is in her second year of study towards a Bachelor of Education degree at Te Whare Wananga o Awanuiarangi.
Pirini is keen to be the kind of teacher that exposes her students to the environment, outside of the constraints of classroom learning.