New plan to engage Māori

The Qualifications Authority is finalising its first Māori Strategic Plan, Te Rautaki Māori a te Mana Tohu Matauranga (2007-12).

To develop a Māori Strategy, NZQA first considered how we could best contribute to educational outcomes for Māori. We talked with other external agencies and sector groups, such as Te Puni Kokiri and the Māori Potential Framework.

The consultation, based on a discussion document, Towards a Māori Strategic Framework, was held between February and May 2006. Fourteen hui were held from Dunedin to Kaikohe attracting attendees from mainstream organisations and Māori providers.

The Strategic Plan was then written to provide direction enabling the Qualifications Authority to work with Māori stakeholders more effectively. "This plan marks a new beginning for the Qualifications Authority and will help us build Māori potential and capability. We've developed the plan in consultation with Māori communities and stakeholders towards a common goal - improved Māori educational outcomes. The plan identifies the role NZQA can play," says NZQA Board chairperson Sue Suckling.

The Strategy aims for "full Māori participation in a knowledge-based economy." It acknowledges there are challenges to overcome, for example, low achievement rates for Māori school leavers and the prevalence of Māori in certain segments of the labour market.

Key factors to encourage Māori learners are:

• multiple pathways -different ways to undertake tertiary education and training
• quality courses and providers with outcomes linked to employability, positive participation in society and strengthened cultural identity
• integrated and collaborative learning
• opportunities to excel in te ao Māori and in the wider society.

NZQA will implement the strategy through its roles in:

• quality systems and processes
• career advancement
• engagement with Māori
• collaboration.

Many of the goals in the Māori Strategy are shared by other agencies, particularly within the education sector. We'll ensure we work collaboratively with other key agencies to achieve those goals.