The meeting opened with Matua Vince Hapi acknowledging the recent passing of Joe Hawke, who led the Bastion Point occupation and became an icon in the struggle for indigenous rights. Matua Vince quoted the proverb that ‘when one chief dies another leader rises to take his place’ with reference to the tauira who were present at the launch of the P-TECH initiative at MIT Manukau earlier in the week.
The initiative between school, tertiary providers and industry creates a pathway for learners in south Auckland to tech futures aiming to address low representation of Māori and Pasifika in these rewarding, exciting fields.
Te Pūkenga Transition
The Board welcomed Te Pūkenga Chair Murray Strong and Chief Executive Stephen Town for a session to share insights on transition from both subsidiary and national perspectives.
There was a discussion about the progress towards January 1, 2023 and strategies that could be introduced to reduce uncertainty and support staff retention in a tight labour market.
The need to protect taonga Māori enshrined in existing programmes while reviewing qualifications nationally was also raised.
Reengaging Secondary learners
Recent efforts to reinvigorate applications and enrolments including MIT Open Day, a hui with school careers advisors and the launch of P-TECH were explained.
Local schools have been encouraged by the numbers of students returning to class after recent COVID-19 related disruptions. However, there is still a significant cohort, particularly in MIT’s community who remain disengaged.
It was also noted the move back to on site learning has helped with student engagement.
Building 108
The Board was updated on delays and increased costs for this project due to COVID-19. The pandemic has influenced the cost and availability of materials, as well as workforce absences.
There was discussion on ways these could be mitigated to complete the building renovation.
Safety and Wellbeing
The Board acknowledged this is a time of change and uncertainty for our kaimahi. Management provided an update on wellbeing initiatives in place, as well as confirmation that current Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providers are able to support the wellbeing of our staff during this time.
The Board continues to encourage our kaimahi to utilise the support available through EAP Services.