Wintec’s ‘standout’ adult learners recognised
Proactive, enthusiastic and engaged are just a few of the words used to describes this year’s Waikato Institute of Technology (Wintec) Adult Learner Award recipients.
The organisation hosted its annual Adult Learner Awards on Wednesday night, an evening which celebrates its top adult learners aged 25 and above as part of Adult Learners’ Week, He Tangata Matauranga (5-11 September).
The event saw five awards valued at $1000 each given out to adult students who show enthusiasm and commitment to their learning; support and encourage others in learning activities; share their skills, knowledge and abilities; and challenge themselves and others with new ideas.
This year’s winners are:
- Kavita Ganesh, originally from India and currently based in Hamilton, studying the Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Informatics.
- Mayron Wihongi, of Hamilton, studying the Bachelor of Nursing (Tihei Mauri Ora stream).
- Karlene Owsley, of Hamilton, studying the Bachelor of Nursing.
- Paula Ingram, of New Plymouth, studying the Bachelor of Social Work.
- Glen Valentine, of Rotorua, studying the Bachelor of Midwifery.
Wintec Dean, Gaye Barton said the awards were an important event on the annual calendar.
“Studying as an adult can often involve overcoming significant obstacles and juggling priorities so these awards are our way of formally recognising these students and acknowledging their commitment to study.
“The award winners are all students who have made an impact while studying at Wintec – they were standout students to their tutors and it’s great to be able to celebrate them this way.”
The awards were presented at a ceremony held at The Atrium, in Wintec House, which was attended by a crowd of around 90 including nominees, their families, and Wintec staff and tutors.
