Manaaki Scholars strengthen Pacific futures through study at Unitec

Four new ākonga (learners) from Kiribati, the Solomon Islands and Tonga were welcomed this week, joining five Manaaki New Zealand Scholars already studying on campus.

The new scholars will undertake programmes in Engineering and Construction. All Manaaki NZ Scholars are supported by fully funded New Zealand Government scholarships through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, with additional pastoral and academic support in place to help ensure their success.

Upon completing their qualifications, the scholars will return home to contribute to the development of their Pacific nations.

“Unitec has held this contract arrangement for almost 30 years, so we’re really excited by the growth in this space as we continue to serve the Asia-Pacific region, with the contract now extended for another five years,” says Director – Student Success, Annette Pitovao.

For Boris Teddy from the Solomon Islands, the strong industry focus inspired him to enrol in the Bachelor of Construction Management.

“They have a strong emphasis on hands-on practical experience, project-based learning, and internships that allow you to apply theory to real-world settings,” he explains.
“Through this qualification, I hope to gain valuable knowledge and skills that I can take back to my home country to contribute to the economy, particularly in infrastructure development.”

Growing up in Tonga gave Rosemarie de Castro firsthand insight into how infrastructure shapes people’s lives — especially in communities vulnerable to natural disasters and climate change. This inspired her to enrol in the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil).
“I want to be part of building stronger, safer communities back in my country of Tonga,” Rosemarie says.
“Seeing the impact of housing and infrastructure projects in Tonga made me realise how important good engineering is — not just for development, but for people’s safety and wellbeing. With my qualifications, I hope to return to Tonga and contribute to improving infrastructure, housing and climate resilience. My dream is to use what I learn to support my community and help create a more secure future for the islands.”

“I am delighted to see our cohort of Manaaki Scholars expand this year, with a 40 percent increase in Semester One alone,” says NZ Scholarships & Youth Guarantee Lead, Byron Iosia.

“We also look forward to welcoming additional scholars already in the pipeline who will join us in Semester Two, including one scholar travelling all the way from Timor-Leste.”

Mr Iosia says each Manaaki Scholar brings a story of sacrifice and determination, and he paid tribute to their courage and commitment.
“While these students are supported by fully funded scholarships, the personal cost of pursuing their education is significant. Three of our new scholars have left behind children, spouses and their wider communities to be here,” Byron says.
“For one of our new scholars, this journey marks the first of many milestones. He is the first in his family to pursue higher education, and it was also his first time boarding a plane and travelling beyond the Solomon Islands.”

New Manaaki Scholars

Teema Taabea Kiribati – Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrical)
Rosemarie de Castro – Tonga – Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil)
Ahrome Olibuma – Solomon Islands – Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil)
Boris Teddy – Solomon Islands – Bachelor of Construction (Construction Management)