Students in Tairāwhiti studying AI and drone technology will soon have greater support to study, train and work locally through a new scholarship initiative at the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT).
Trust Tairāwhiti has approved $35k in funding for EIT Tairāwhiti to support Māori economic development through scholarships for up to three undergraduate students and one master’s student studying emerging technology fields, including AI, robotics and drone innovation.
“These scholarships will help students access university-level technology education while remaining connected to their whānau and communities. It will also help meet growing demand for skilled technology professionals in the region.”
Through EITs Bachelor of Computing Systems programme, students take part in an Applied Project course developed alongside industry partners. The course focuses on aerospace technologies, embedded systems, robotics and artificial intelligence through industry-based projects.
Students also undertake internships with local agriculture, forestry, port and construction organisations, helping create pathways into local employment.
“Some of my students are currently working with QUBE at Eastland Port, analysing operational processes and developing AI-based solutions to improve efficiency,” says Dr Mozhaeva.
“QUBE employees were so impressed with the students’ work that they invited them to present to their central office. Their solutions directly addressed industry needs.”
The programme has also created international opportunities for local students.
“Last year, for the first time, a student from our course presented at an international conference in Austria.
“It shows that rangatahi Māori from Tairāwhiti can contribute on a global stage while building skills and careers here at home,” says Dr Mozhaeva.
EIT is also developing a new programme focused on drone and robotics technologies, designed around local industry needs and future workforce demand.
The scholarships aim to create stronger pathways from school into local study, internships and long-term employment in Tairāwhiti.
The undergraduate scholarships are open to all students, while the master’s scholarship is intended for a Māori student who has completed their undergraduate degree. Eligibility is not restricted by how recently they may have completed their undergraduate degree.
Applications are expected to open at the end of June.