Kia Tū Ākonga Shine! All 20 SIT students complete the course
On Friday 11 July, we celebrated the completion of the Kia Tū Trade Training Pathway Programme at the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) by our latest class. Th
is was the fifth group to go through the course since it began back in August 2024.
This cohort started together on Tuesday 27 May, and we’re thrilled to share that all 20 students successfully achieved their Microcredential qualification – the first time in the programme’s history that everyone in a class has completed!
Since the Kia Tū Programme began, 99 students have now taken part – each bringing their own strengths and stories, and all contributing to the programme’s growing success.
Exploring local industries
Throughout the course, students took part in a wide range of activities to explore local industries and develop their pathway plans. They visited sites such as the Tiwai Aluminium Smelter, Mercury’s Kaiwera Downs Wind Farm, Niagara Sawmill, and the Invercargill Licensing Trust, gaining valuable insights into potential career opportunities.
Cohort 5 visiting Niagara Sawmill.
The class also welcomed guest speakers into the classroom, including budgeting services, cultural advisors, business representatives, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and benefited from workshop visits supported by the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT).
This intake saw a real lift in students’ motivation and confidence, and the positive feedback from the community has been fantastic.
A collaborate effort for success
It’s important to acknowledge the collaborative efforts that make the Kia Tū Programme possible: the support of SIT Trades, Enrolments, Student Services, and the many others across SIT who generously share their knowledge and time when a student shows interest in a particular area.
Alongside this, the programme is strengthened by the contributions of Murihiku Regeneration, Hokonui Rūnanga, Anamata Māia, and the many businesses, industry partners, and individuals who open their doors and share their expertise. Together, these efforts help create real opportunities and positive outcomes for our students.
This was our final class funded by the Ministry of Social Development – Māori Trades and Training Fund. Looking ahead, future cohorts will continue under funding from the Tertiary Education Commission, allowing the Kia Tū Programme to keep making a difference in our community.
To this incredible group of students: congratulations!
Your hard work, commitment, and the way you supported each other have truly paid off – we’re so proud of what you’ve achieved.
Posted: 15 July 2025