Over the next six years, the University plans to establish a mechanical engineering department, which will host a Chair of Mechanical Engineering, an Advanced Mechanical Engineering Laboratory, and a Research Centre for Advanced Mechanical Engineering, all named after Sir Mark Dunajtschik.
Vice-Chancellor of the University Professor Nic Smith says Sir Mark’s gift will be transformational.
“We live in a world where technology has a significant influence on manufacturing and robotics, and impacts the very way we live. As we continue to see technology and design becoming increasingly democratised, this gesture will enable us to introduce a programme that will be truly valuable for our students.
“This is the right direction for us and I’m sure it’ll open up many opportunities for meaningful collaborations across New Zealand.”
Any new engineering programmes would be subject to standard regulatory approval.
Recognised as the 2017 Wellingtonian of the Year for his $53 million donation to the Wellington Children’s Hospital, Sir Mark has contributed to many education, health, and sporting organisations. This includes a $2 million gift in 2016 to establish the Mark Dunajtschik Chair of Sustainable Energy Systems at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, with extensive work being done with iwi through that initiative to transform energy generation and usage in Aotearoa.
Sir Mark was knighted as part of this year’s New Year Honours. He says, “Engineering gave me my start in life, and I want to give others the opportunity to utilise their knowledge and skills in engineering to have the chance to live and work in different countries around the world.”
Dean of the Wellington Faculty of Engineering, Professor Dale Carnegie says the Faculty has been fortunate to enjoy a long association with Sir Mark.
“This gift is a game-changer for us, enabling us to diversify into new areas and develop the next generation of engineering graduates, equipped to address some of the crucial issues Aotearoa New Zealand will face in the future.”