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Announcement

Ako Aotearoa Regional Forums return in 2024

20 November 2023 Supporting learners, Supporting staff, Teaching strategies, Strategic Leadership and Change

The Sector Services Managers of Ako Aotearoa are delighted to confirm the return of our Regional Forums in 2024 under the theme Tūhono: Connecting Traditions and Futures in Tertiary Learning.

These Forums, hosted by our Southern, Central, and Northern Hubs, will take place in-person, in the first half of next year. The registration fee is $50 per person – spaces are limited, so get in early!

The Southern Regional Forum was held in Dunedin on 22 March. 

Register now for the dates and locations below:

The 2023 Regional Forums gave the tertiary education sector an opportunity to reconnect face-to-face and explore successful strategies to overcome current sector challenges.

We were delighted to hear such positive feedback about these Forums:

“Hearing from so many people about the amazing work they're all doing and all the knowledge around how to help encourage learning and success was really encouraging” – Central Regional Forum attendee.

“It's important to get together in person from time to time. Many of the challenges we share, and it's good to discuss this with colleagues from across the technical and vocational education and training sector” Northern Regional Forum attendee.

“It is so valuable to be able to connect with people in person and [the Forum] reminded me of that. In this uncertain time, the opportunity to ‘down tools’ for a day, have a few laughs and hear from experts in their field was, as you say, a welcome tonic” – Southern Regional Forum attendee.

This time around, we are excited to host presentations on topics such as:

  • AI impacts and indigenous data sovereignty
  • Indigenous innovation
  • Te Tiriti and relational learning at scale
  • Pacific-centric and Fonofale approach to teaching
  • AI and opportunities for assessment
  • Neurodiversity
  • Local providers sharing their teaching and learner stories
  • ...and more!

 

The programme for our Central Regional Forum in Palmerston North is available now (subject to change).

 

More about the strategic theme for 2024

The theme for the 2024 Regional Forums is Tūhono: Connecting Traditions and Futures in Tertiary Learning.

Connecting Mātauranga Māori, Pasifika values, and modern pedagogies with the nuances of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology, this theme champions an educational landscape that celebrates the identity of all ākonga. It ensures both tradition and innovation thrive side by side.

It also encapsulates a vision where Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles guide a future-focussed, inclusive learning environment.

The theme was developed from three key areas:

  1. Cultivating excellent tertiary teaching through teaching methodologies, pedagogical approaches and assessment strategies that are innovative and inclusive. This results in a vibrant learning environment that uses cutting edge technology suitable for today’s learners.
  2. Making links between teaching and learner success (Oritetanga) by placing success of learners at the heart. We must consider their cultural, emotional, and academic needs to give them a sense of belonging and empowerment.
  3. Embracing Te Tiriti o Waitangi by embedding Māori perspectives, language and values in curricula and campus activities. This means that tradition and innovation are balanced, and collaboration with Māori communities means that indigenous knowledge is incorporated.

We look forward to connecting and collaborating with you all once again at these valuable sector events.

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Central Regional Forum 2024 | 17 May

Central Hub Sector Services Manager Sam Kelly is pleased to invite you to the Ako Aotearoa Central Regional Forum in Palmerston North.

Northern Regional Forum 2024

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Northern Regional Forum 2024 | 21 June

Northern Hub Sector Services Manager Ruth Peterson is pleased to invite you to the Ako Aotearoa Northern Regional Forum in Hamilton.