Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury
A vibrant ava ceremony and the words “we did it” marked the launch of a new Pacific Culture and Health course at Ara Institute of Canterbury.
Developed through extensive collaboration with Pacific community leaders, health practitioners and sector partners, the Level 5 course aims to prepare graduates to work more effectively alongside Pacific peoples and communities.
More than 90 ākonga (students) are enrolled in the inaugural offering, which is being delivered for the first time this semester as part of Ara’s Bachelor of Applied Science programme.
Ara Associate Director for Pacific Success Sua Tauti said the launch reflected years of relationship-building and collaboration between Ara and its Pacific communities.
“This course is a tangible example of what can happen when community and education work together. Ultimately, it will contribute to greater learner success and better outcomes for our communities.
“We’re proud to see this vision come to life and grateful to the many Pacific leaders, organisations and community members who have walked alongside us throughout the development process.”
Community and sector partners involved in the process included representatives from the Ministry of Education, Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora, Tangata Atumotu Trust, the Ministry for Pacific Peoples and other Pacific organisations who contributed their knowledge, expertise and feedback throughout the consultation process.
Among those attending the launch was Pacific health advisor and cultural humility educator Lisa Taylor-Haleck-Helu, who was involved in the course’s development from the outset.
“This course is a game changer. Students will enter their professions with knowledge and understanding that will influence how they build relationships, communicate and ultimately deliver better outcomes for Pacific peoples and families.”
Senior Academic Helen Marshall said the need for the course emerged during a programme review and discussions with Pacific community and industry representatives.
“When we started these conversations at the end of 2024, the need for a first-year Pacific course came through loud and clear.”
The course explores Pacific histories, migration journeys, health perspectives, language and communication, relationship building through the concept of vā, as well as traditional Pacific sports, games and cultural practices.
Marshall said the programme would help equip graduates with the cultural understanding needed to work effectively in diverse communities.
“If we’re working more effectively and more respectfully with people, that’s got to lead to better outcomes,” she said.
The ava ceremony celebrated not only the launch of a new course, but the relationships, trust and shared commitment that helped bring it to life.