This week, our Community Education Centre was filled with pride and achievement

This week, our Community Education Centre was filled with pride and achievement as we celebrated Graduation Week. 

Learners from across our programmes came together with whānau, friends, and kaiako/tutors to acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and personal growth that each graduate has shown throughout the term. 

-    Basic Car Maintenance Course - Empowering Everyday Confidence 

-    Samoan Language – Commitment in Preserving Gagana Samoa 

-    Cook Island Māori Language – Celebrating Kūki ‘Āirani Identity 

-    Te Reo Māori – Honouring Te Ao Māori 

One of the most significant highlights of this week’s celebrations was hosting the Cook Islands Māori Graduation Ceremony at our on-site marae, Te Kōtuku, for the very first time. 

This milestone brought together the Mana of Te Kōtuku Marae with the vibrant cultural traditions of the Kūki ‘Āirani /Cook Islands. The ceremony was filled with heartfelt speeches, cultural performances, and a powerful sense of unity. 

It was a moment that honoured both the diversity and interconnectedness of our learning community.

by Ramona Toth