SIT Chief Executive, Bharat Guha, began planning in late February for SIT to create and offer ten scholarships to Aurora College each year, beginning in 2027.
The scholarships will be provided for any qualifications ranging from certificates to bachelor’s degrees across all of SIT’s faculties and will continue for the duration of the qualification for each student.
Aurora College management and staff will select the scholarship recipients, who will be presented with their scholarships at SIT in early December.
Mr Guha acknowledged the assistance of Ivan Hodgetts, Director of Capability and Partnerships from Murihiku Regeneration, who introduced the two parties and helped establish the collaboration, due to a project Mr Hodgetts had undertaken with the college around study and career pathways.
“We were looking to deepen the collaboration with our polytechnic, so students can better access all the programmes on offer, such as STAR and Gateway,” Mr Hodgetts said, adding he had previously worked with SIT in establishing the successful Kia Tū trades programme. “More recently, we were looking at future direction for the students,” and the establishment of the new scholarships was a “pretty fantastic” outcome.
“The great thing about the relationship with SIT is the focus on how we best enable the people in our community to build the capability they need. It’s very rewarding work.” Mr Hodgetts said.
Aurora College Principal, Craig Taylor, was absolutely thrilled to secure the partnership with SIT. “Gaining the 10 scholarships is not just a win for the individual recipients, but a proud moment for the entire school as we strengthen our ties with such a significant local institution."
“This initiative is also a testament to the hard work of our students and the growing recognition of Aurora College as a place where academic and vocational excellence is nurtured.”
Mr Taylor stated the scholarships represent a life-changing opportunity, because for many Aurora families, the transition to tertiary education could feel like a significant financial hurdle.
"The value to our community is immense. By providing 10 dedicated pathways to local study, we are removing those barriers and keeping our talented young people right here in Southland. It sends a powerful message to our whānau that their children’s aspirations are supported and that success at Aurora leads directly to a high-quality future at SIT."
He was looking forward to selecting the first cohort for 2027. "While academic performance and NCEA endorsements are important, we are looking for well-rounded individuals who embody our school values,” rewarding students who have shown 'pride in achievement’, demonstrated resilience, and contributed positively to school life. “We are looking for those with a clear vision for their future and the determination to succeed in their chosen field, whether that be in trades, health, business, or the arts."
Mr Taylor expects the introduction of the scholarships to raise the ceiling for student aspiration across the college.
“When students in the junior and middle school see their senior peers being rewarded for their dedication, it creates a ripple effect of motivation. Ultimately, we expect to see an increase in students transitioning directly into meaningful tertiary study, higher retention in our senior school, and a stronger, more skilled local workforce for Invercargill and the wider Southland region."
Mr Guha said the scholarships were a result of the college’s proactive attitude. “Aurora reached out to us; we saw a need and wanted to reward their positive approach. The introduction of the Aurora College scholarships helps to support opportunity and equity within Invercargill; we’re backing our young people with action.”
“This is a commitment to the tertiary education strategy of collaboration with high schools.”
He extended an invitation to the management team and staff of Aurora to visit SIT for a campus tour. “We enjoyed visiting Aurora this week; we will also work at bringing Aurora students to tour SIT and to participate in our taster programmes.”
“We are looking forward to working with Craig and the Aurora team to successfully open doors to tertiary education for more students who have the desire and motivation to see their tertiary training goals realised here in Invercargill.”