The University of Otago has developed a strategy to increase
the academic success of Pacific people at the university.
The university's proposed "Pacific strategic framework" was
tabled at the university's council meeting this week.
Vice-chancellor Prof Harlene Hayne said at the council
meeting that while universities had been successful in
improving Maori academic success, they had been "slower" in
identifying strategies for Pacific students.
The proposed framework used the "bones" of the strategy which
had been successful in lifting the performance of Maori and
"tailored" that to Pacific peoples, Prof Hayne said.
Academic and international deputy vice-chancellor Prof Vernon
Squire said in a memorandum to the council that the
development of the framework involved "extensive research and
consultation".
The goals identified in the framework included encouraging
academic divisions to incorporate Pacific topics, building
strong relationships with Pacific families and supporting
participation, and retention, development and success of its
Pacific staff and students.
The council approved the framework, which is now subject to
endorsement by the university senate.
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