The University of Auckland has appointed Dr Meaola Amituanai-Toloa to the position of Associate Dean Pasifika in its faculty of education. Although other tertiary institutions have appointed associate deans to focus on Māori and equity issues, the university says, an equivalent position dedicated to the academic support and achievements of Pacific Island students has not previously existed in New Zealand...
more >>
The appointment is said to be an integral part of the university’s dedication to improving educational outcomes and opportunities for Pacific peoples.
It also reflects the leadership role played by the faculty of education (formerly the Auckland College of Education), which boasts the first Pasifika early-childhood education programme at diploma and degree level; the first graduate-studies programme and qualification in Pacific-languages education and in Pacific bilingual education; and the first Pacific-focused services for academic achievement.
The faculty also has the largest team of Pacific education academics in New Zealand.
Dr Amituanai-Toloa says that she sees her role as a bridge that connects the myriad of schools in the faculty of education, all of which aim to help future teachers raise student achievement. She believes that, given the growing diversity of the school population in New Zealand, it is increasingly important to research the best ways to teach students from different ethnic backgrounds, especially Pacific students.
“The Pacific Island population is increasing in New Zealand. Our greatest challenge is to think about teaching in innovative ways to enable these students of today to realise their full potential and participate fully in our country’s future. It is a huge undertaking and, in the establishment of this role, the University of Auckland has shown it is committed to the challenge,” says Dr Amituanai-Toloa.
<< less
