Equity in New Zealand university graduate outcomes: Māori and Pacific graduates

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Theodore R et al.

September 27, 2017

Summary:

This examination of data from the Graduate Longitudinal Study New Zealand compared Māori and Pacific university graduate outcomes with outcomes of other New Zealand graduates. The data were collected during the students’ final year of study (n=8719) and again at 2 years post-graduation (n=6104). At 2 years post-graduation, employment outcomes were comparable between Māori, Pacific and other New Zealand graduates, but student debt burden and financial strain was significantly higher amongst Māori and Pacific graduates. They were significantly more likely to help others (e.g., family) in various scenarios (e.g., lending money), and they were much more willing to volunteer for community projects compared to the other graduates.

Comment:

See next paper.

Reference: Higher Educat Res Dev. 2017 Jul 3. [Epub ahead of print]

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.