The relationship between lotu and ako for Pacific university students in New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Social Policy at Massey University, Manawatu, New Zealand
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Date
2011
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Massey University
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Abstract
Improving the educational achievement of Pacific peoples is an on-going development
issue in Aotearoa, New Zealand. This thesis explored the relationship between lotu
(spirituality/faith/church) and ako (formal education) amongst Pacific university
students. Lotu is defined within the context of the Christian tradition. The value of lotu
is used interchangeably throughout this thesis with spirituality, faith, and church.
Ako as defined within the context of this study is a Tongan term signifying education
or the formal process of learning. The primary objective of this study is to identify the
mechanisms by which lotu influences academic achievement of Pacific university
students. A blend of qualitative ethnography and the Talanoa approach provided the
conceptual framework. Two focus groups and eight individual interviews of Pacific
students and graduates were conducted. The findings suggest a positive relationship
between lotu and educational achievement for Pacific university students. The
participants described their spirituality as a personal relationship with Christ which
was reflected in their active practicing of: prayer; reading, studying and meditating on
the Word of God; and attending church fellowship. Spirituality for the respondents
was also emulated in their relationships, with God, with their kainga and with other
people. These relationships were key motivations for their desire to succeed in their
academic pursuits. Linked to the significance of these relationships was the
participants’ definition of academic achievement which was beyond the mere
attainment of a qualification but also about their ability to reciprocally give back to
their kainga and increase their community’s wellbeing. In the midst of the inevitable
trials and tribulations of the respondents’ social and academic journeys, their
spirituality gave them hope, wisdom (poto) and courage to persevere in order to
complete their studies. The findings suggest a need for continued support of Pacific
students using the pastoral care model, as well as better collaborative approaches to
policy making among tertiary institutions, key educational policy agencies and the
Pasifika community.
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Keywords
Pacific Islander university students, College students, Pacific Islanders, Religious life, Christianity, Christians, Education, Social life and customs, New Zealand