The forum offered sector professionals and educators a unique opportunity to connect, share ideas, and help shape the future of Ako Aotearoa and tertiary education in New Zealand. 

More than 70 attendees from 27 different tertiary organisations took part in the day’s activities, contributing a wide range of perspectives to discussions. Presentations included contributions from Industry Training Solutions (ITS), Massey University, and UCOL. 

A highlight for Central Sector Services Manager (SSM), Christina Crews, included presentations from the ITS All Sorts Team who opened the event with a heartwarming adaptation of ‘Te Aroha’, sung and signed in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL).  

“The ITS – All Sorts team brought energy, authenticity, and insight, with students showing exactly why this work matters. Their waiata and multilingual expression – in Samoan, NZSL, and te reo Māori – was moving and meaningful.” 

Keynote speaker Professor Palatasa Havea, whose presentation on strengthening Pacific thought leadership and supporting Pasifika learners, resonated deeply with the audience. One audience member reflected specifically on a key point Professor Havea spoke about during his presentation, as he referred to need of foundational change for Pasifika learners:

Emcee, Saylene Ulberg (left) and Professor Palatasa Havea (right).

“Professor Havea spoke about foundational change as a ‘crack on the wall on the 24th floor’ of an office building, as it would need work on the building's foundation – this was thought provoking especially for the needs of Pasifkia learners across Aotearoa.”

This year, Ako Aotearoa placed special emphasis on fostering active dialogue and collaboration during the regional forums as part of its strategy co-design project. Central SSM, Christina Crews commented on how this was achieved during the kōrerorero sessions on the day, “The kōrerorero sessions created a space for rich, thoughtful dialogue in small and effective groups”. She also noted that the presentations paired with the discussions throughout the day reminded those attending of the importance ākonga / learners have in our work.

If you're located in the Upper North Island and would like to continue expanding your sector connections and contribute to this growing discussion, join Ako Aotearoa at the Northern Regional Forum in Auckland on 8 May, hosted by Northern Regional SSM, Ruth Peterson. Limited spaces are available, so register now. 

Access photos from the Central Regional Forum here.

Download the Forum Presentation Slides (PDF, 3mb)

Photo top left: Students from Industry Training Solutions singing and signing in NZSL at the Central Regional Forum