Vaka guides planning phase

Planning for a comprehensive post-secondary programme is currently underway for the island of Mangaia.

Mangaia holds dear their ocean going ‘vaka’– Rangimatoru. This we hope will be a guiding framework to developing a programme that meets the aspirations of the people.

The Vaka marks a ‘symbol of strength and courage of the ancestors as they visualise a beautiful homeland – a land of milk and honey – despite the dangers of the ocean,’ as stated by Tuaiva Mautairi – vaka maker; chief of Veitatei, Mangaia.

Some work has been done early in the year to scope the level of interest and possible focus areas which includes trade courses like carpentry, electrical, automotive – high on industry-based skills. This will include a vaka-making programme, with the aim of sharing knowledge and skills to the younger generation while at the same time instilling passion in identity and cultural preservation.

The programmes currently being planned for will include local cooking and IT community-based training that have always generated high participation rate.

The main office is located within the Mangaia Island Information centre.

Members of the Mangaia community are being encouraged to identify courses that they would be interested to take. The Island learning broker is available on 34 238/75596 or on email Anaseini.Pokino@citti.edu.ck

The goal of the Mangaia Learning broker – unit is to run the programme for the next six months and tailor it further to suit the needs of the people of Mangaia.

With the aim to closely review the programmes right throughout the year so that it becomes an annual education-calendar that consistently builds up accreditation, nurtures passions and consequently achieves dreams whether professional or personal.