Three Vā Pasifika student spaces
Three Vā Pasifika student spaces have recently been established at AUT to help set students up for success.
During the mid-semester break, mihi whakatau (welcome ceremony and blessing) took place at the newly-allocated Vā Pasifika spaces ahead of AUT students’ return to campus.
In addressing guests at the City Campus Vā Pasifika mihi whakatau, AUT’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Pacific, Jacoba Matapo said, “We’ve heard the voices of our students and their aspirations to create an accessible and culturally sustaining learning environment.
“This new initiative is one of three - at Akoranga, Manukau, and here at City Campus; relational spaces that foster a thriving environment for our Pacific students within the University.”
The aspirations for these important Vā Pasifika spaces are to provide a place that is; welcoming and allows students to grow – culturally and academically, that celebrates language, culture and identity, offers opportunities for networking and tailored academic support, and is a safe space for learning.
Open daily, AUT’s team of navigators (Pacific student mentors) will be on hand at the Vā Pasifika spaces to help students out from 12pm to 6pm each weekday during semester.
The Vā Pasifika spaces are located at: City Campus - WA301A, North Campus - AE125, South Campus - MC214.
During her welcome speech, Jacoba also delved into the concept of Vā, noting that, “Across the Pacific, the concept of Vā traverses time and space, and can be traced across the Pacific. For example, Samoan, Tongan, Niuean, and Wā for Hawaiian, and Tangata Whenua. Vā creates a sacred and generative space for connection, reconnection, and interaction.
In referencing the term ‘Pasifika’, she went on to say that, although not all Pacific peoples here identify with it, there remains a rich history for the term especially in education. For many, it “Provides an inclusive identity for Pacific peoples in Aotearoa, respecting ethnic-specific cultural ties, and recognising our shared geography, whakapapa and unique and indigenous ways of being.
“Coupling these concepts into "Vā Pasifika" for us represents a collective commitment to the relational contexts where Pacific students find a sense of belonging, where they can honour their heritage while forging new connections and thriving in their academic journey at the university.
“As we move into the blessing of this space, let's carry this spirit of "Vā Pasifika" in our hearts, celebrating the rich heritage, unity, and diversity it symbolises.”
AUT Pacific Student Success Consultant, Tony Solomona says, “When you enter a new environment like University, one of the most calming things is walking into a space that people look, eat, laugh, sing and sound like you. Also the beauty of having a dedicated Pasifika space is that we have always been about inclusivity not exclusivity so we welcome everyone, Pasifika and non-Pasifika to come and connect with us in our space.
“We hope that Vā Pasifika will feel like a home away from home, where students are welcomed and are empowered in their university journey.”