New multidisciplinary Faculty launched
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington announces the establishment of a new Faculty, Te Pukenga Wai—Faculty of Education, Health, and Psychological Sciences.
The new Faculty brings together the former Faculties of Education and Health alongside the School of Psychological Sciences. This provides a multidisciplinary home dedicated to fostering educational excellence, advancing health and psychological sciences, and deepening understandings of people and communities.
Te Pukenga Wai brings together related disciplines, fostering collaboration among staff and students across the University and with external partners. It strengthens shared purpose and enhances the Faculty’s distinctive contribution through new ways of thinking, understanding, and working.
“I see our core mission as embracing collaboration, innovation, and community connection to contribute to a healthier, more equitable, and culturally enriched world—one where evidence and knowledge serve as a powerful force for positive change,” says Dean of the new Faculty, Professor David Harper.
Professor Harper is proud to be leading such a well-regarded group.
“Te Pukenga Wai’s academic staff are world-class researchers and award-winning educators. Whether it’s through excellence in research or transformative student experiences, the expertise of our staff means the Faculty is strongly placed to shape evidence-based policy, inform national and regional decision-making, and drive international impact,” says Professor Harper.
The Reo name—Te Pukenga Wai—draws inspiration from the whakataukī (proverb) ‘He pukenga wai, he nohonga tāngata, he putanga kōrero’, which translates to ‘where waters meet, people gather, and knowledge flows’. Professor Harper says the new Faculty is a community that comes together to challenge traditional boundaries, integrate fundamental and applied research, and drive meaningful change. Whether addressing health inequities, enhancing educational outcomes, or promoting mental and emotional wellbeing, the Faculty will be committed to creating solutions that support individuals, whānau, and communities to thrive.
“Through pioneering research, transformative teaching, and strong community engagement, the Faculty will empower future educators, psychological scientists, health practitioners, and public health leaders with the skills and insights to tackle complex regional and global challenges.”