Launch of the Ngarimu VC and 28th (Māori) Battalion learning resource
Hon Kelvin Davis, Associate Minister of Education (Māori Education), officially launched the Ngarimu VC and 28th (Māori) Battalion learning resource on Friday 2 July, alongside the Ngarimu VC and 28th (Māori) Battalion Memorial Scholarship Fund Board, distinguished guests and Ministry officials.
The launch was held at Uepohatu War Memorial Hall in Ruatoria, with invited guests in attendance along with ākonga from nine local kura and surrounding schools leading a pōhiri. The event was hosted by the Ngarimu whānau, Ngāti Porou and Te Whānau-ā-Apanui iwi representatives.
Dr Wayne Ngata gives a whaikōrero at the pōhiri.
Photo by Josie McClutchie.
The learning resource has been developed by the Ngarimu VC and 28th (Māori) Battalion Scholarship Fund Board for ākonga of all ages.
Minister Davis spoke about the learning resource at the launch, saying:
“These resources aren’t here just for us to learn about what the Māori battalion did in war, but it’s also for us to understand and realise the impact of what their actions had on us as Māori and the impact they’re having on us now.”
The resource provides opportunities for ākonga to explore a range of stories and histories of the 28th (Māori) Battalion to help ākonga understand the impact of the soldiers’ contribution, and how the actions of the 28th (Māori) Battalion have shaped our modern nation.
Minister Davis with rangatahi at the learning resource launch.
Photo by Josie McClutchie.
“It’s my pleasure as the Associate Minister of Education and the Chair of the Ngarimu VC board to be here to officially launch these resources that will help you to understand more about the sacrifice of our uncles and our forebears. So that we don’t forget. And in future generations, it’s important that they continue to remember, acknowledge and learn about the sacrifice of our tūpuna," said Minister Kelvin Davis.
Minister Davis speaking at the launch of the learning resource.
Photo by Josie McClutchie
As the Ministry of Education, we want to ensure that ākonga in all schools and kura learn how our histories have shaped our present-day lives. Through learning about ngā āhuatanga (characteristics) of the 28th (Māori) Battalion in World War II, ākonga will understand how significant events and people are still relevant today as they have shaped and continue to shape our lives. This includes understanding and demonstrating characteristics such whanaungatanga, rangatiratanga and manaakitanga, which were on full display at Ruatoria on Friday.
“This [resource] is not just for Māori, it is for all New Zealanders," said Minister Davis. "The lessons learned here are applicable to all the battalions, companies and units that fought in World War II."
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