Thirty ākonga from Hebei University of Engineering and Hebei Vocational University of Industry and Technology in China, got up close with Māori culture and applied learning during a week-long exchange with us from 25-30 August.
During their stay, the students spent time with our MAIA and Marae team learning to weave, sing waiata, perform kapa haka, make fried bread and boil up.
“They fully enjoyed their time with us and we had fun teaching them lots of things about our culture and student life at Unitec,” says MAIA Administrator, Camelia Pirika.
They also spent time in our School of Computing, Electrical and Applied Technology taking part in academic activities.
Partnerships Manager – International Marketing Doris Ding says our visitors appreciated the kind and warm hospitality they received from kaimahi. They return to China with many fond experiences and learnings.
“These exchanges with our partner institutions remind us that education is not just about degrees — it’s about building understanding and connection between people.”
The delegations from both institutes were warmly welcomed on to Te Noho Kotahitanga marae with a pōwhiri ceremony on Monday, attended by senior leaders, kaimahi from our various schools and services, and our International team.
“Your visit continues a tradition we began last year. We welcome a much larger group (from Hebei) this time. You are no longer visitors, you are part of our Unitec family,” says Don Sirimanne, Manager Marketing and International Market Development.
Director, International – Tāmaki, Jeff Howe added: “You all have a great opportunity while you’re here to experience our culture, and what it’s like to study and live here in New Zealand. I encourage you to really make the most of that opportunity. And don’t be shy, to ask questions. Everyone’s here to help and ensure you have a great time while you’re here.”
More exchanges are expected with the inaugural cohort of 120 students enrolled in the Bachelor of Data Science and Big Data Technology starting in September 2025.
This new joint programme between Unitec and Hebei University of Engineering will see students do the final year of their four-year degree in New Zealand.
DCE Learner Experience and Success, Simon Nash will be travelling to China with our International team to speak at the programme launch next month.
Great to see the increasing joint-ventures between Unitec and Chinese Institutes. Good for our ākonga and institutions alike. Congratulations to all.