Office of the Assistant Vice-Chancellor Pasifika
Led by our Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Pasifika), the dedicated Pasifika team aims to grow representation and provide support for staff and students.
Hon Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban, DNZM, Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Pasifika)
Welcome to Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, your place of departure for the journey of your life. Our community supports your academic excellence through discovery and learning at our capital city university with our award-winning facilities and exceptional, outstanding and unique Pasifika support services.
You are not travelling alone. There are many other students sharing your journey who will have similar ambitions to you and will face similar experiences. Together, with your family and community, fellow students will help you navigate your way—and there are many dedicated staff who can provide support services to guide and encourage you. We also have communities of Pasifika students represented in various Pasifika student associations, where you will find a place of belonging and ensure your cultural values and beliefs are enhanced.
The University has many Pasifika graduates who started their journey here and are now flourishing in New Zealand and throughout the world. You are following the pathways of their voyages.
Manuia lou malaga! Good luck on your journey.
The role of Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Pasifika), held by Associate Professor Hon. Luamanuavao Dame Winnie Laban DNZM since its establishment in 2010, holds a distinctive role within New Zealand universities. The purpose of the role is to provide strategic guidance and support for both Pasifika students and staff.
The Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Pasifika) and its office is tasked with promoting the enrolment, retention, and successful completion of programmes for Pasifika students, while also fostering strong connections throughout the University community. Emphasis is also placed on nurturing the University's Pasifika identity, increasing the representation of Pasifika staff and ensuring their wellbeing, and stimulating research into Pasifika topics spanning New Zealand and the Pacific region.
In 2019, the Office welcomed the Pasifika Student Success Team, which is dedicated to helping our Pasifika students navigate their transition to higher education. This team centres on achieving academic excellence, personal growth, and overall wellbeing.
The Pasifika team at the University takes pride in commemorating the academic accomplishments of Pasifika students. This encompasses a series of events such as the university Pasifika Orientation to welcome new students each year, the Annual Pasifika week that showcases diverse aspects of everything Pasifika and hosting graduation celebrations for Pasifika students held in both May and December.