Young people of the Waitaha iwi will have the opportunity to gain the ultimate all-round university experience next year, thanks to the new Waitaha-A-Hei University of Waikato Scholarship.
Valued at $14,500, the scholarship will cover accommodation in the halls of residence, an annual UniRec gym membership, and course-related costs. The purpose is foster students’ growth in a supportive and fulfilling environment.
Jointly funded by the University of Waikato and Waitaha Charitable Trust, the scholarship will be awarded to two students each year. The first scholarship recipients will begin their studies in 2019.
The University of Waikato and Waitaha Charitable Trust entered into a partnership agreement last month, as part of a mutual commitment to build a long-term relationship and to support the academic success of Waitaha students. A Memorandum of Agreement formalised the scholarship last week, signed by Waikato School of Graduate Research Dean Kay Weaver and Waitaha Trustee Frank Grant.
Scholarships manager Kelly Hare was thrilled to work with Te Kapu o Waitaha to develop a partnership and launch the scholarship.
“It’s an amazing opportunity for school leavers of Waitaha iwi to study at the University,” Kelly says. “Coupled with fees-free, it will enable the lucky recipients to start their degree in a supportive community environment, while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”
Waitaha Charitable Trust education services manager Te Arangi Anasta says she’s looking forward to seeing the positive impact the scholarships will have on the lives of Waitaha students.
“We’re very excited to have secured two dollar-for-dollar partnership scholarships with Waikato University specifically tailored for Waitaha students – this scholarship is going to help their first-time university worries disappear.”
Registered Te Kapu o Waitaha students will be considered based on their commitment to succeed at the University, school attendance and character references. Applications are open now and will close on 31 August 2018.
