Science course by Maori, for Maori | Rotorua News | Local News in Rotorua

Ngati Whakaue students have been introduced to the world of science in a school holiday course designed by Maori, for Maori.

Driven by Te Taumata o Ngati Whakaue Iho Ake, "Matakokiri", a science camp for Ngati Whakaue tamariki and rangatahi, was launched in Rotorua last week.

Te Taumata o Ngati Whakaue Iho Ake manager Roana Bennett said Matakokiri meant "Set the Sky Alight" and was a reference to a comet streaking through the night sky.

"The science camp has been developed to increase the number of Maori children choosing science as an option for NCEA," she said.

"Nationally, Maori children have a disproportionately lower participation rate in science-related disciplines resulting in fewer Maori children entering careers in science-related fields."

She said Ngati Whakaue were committed to supporting a number of high quality, skilled and passionate science graduates in the future and the programme would promote an increased knowledge of science and also support the young person's connection to their iwi.

"Our goal is that the young people that attend this program will one day hold key positions in Rotorua, from the medical director at the hospital to the town planner for the district council, and be empowered to be agents of change locally, nationally and internationally."

Mrs Bennett said the the trust wanted to run the course in the first week of every school holiday.

The programme has been developed with key local partners, Lakes DHB, Health Rotorua PHO, Waiariki Institute of Technology, Tipu Ora, Royal Society of New Zealand, Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences, Scion, Rotorua District Riding for the Disabled and Kia Ora Hauora. It is understood to be the first science programme of its kind in New Zealand that was developed by Maori for Maori.

Students spent time learning about the human body and its vital organs, volcanoes and geology, bugs and animals and took part in quizzes and games to enhance their learning.

For more information about Matakokiri contact Roana Bennett on (07) 346 0095 or Lauren James on (07) 343 7743.