Marae training popular

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 5, Issue 25, 17 November 1987, Page 1

Marae training popular

Work skills programmes being run at Maungarongo Marae in Ohakune are proving very popular and successful, with large numbers o f trainees enrolled i n all modules. Forty-six trainees began their full- time courses four weeks ago. Programmes include business studies, catering, wood and bone

carving, Te Reo Maori, Karakeke (weaving), and music and drama. All modules are run under the ACCESS training scheme and are open to the unemployed people, beneficiaries and others wishing to join or re-join the workforce. Those on the six month business studies and catering programmes receive comprehensive training of the skills necessary to be

accepted into the work force. Business studies trainees taught by Lafaette Akapita, learn basic office skills - typing, public relations, filing and client marrner. Catering trainees cook for 70-80 people a day at the Marae, under the supervision of chef Mark McNeil. They receive a grounding on basic culinary skills that will enable Cont'd on p. 11

Marae training

Cont'd from p.l them to take up positions in the food industry. The other Maori ACCESS programmes are of 12 months duration. The Marae's music and drama module is very popular. Under the guidance of Vera Wilson the group have performcd numerous times in the Waimarino. Trainees have the use of a wide range of instruments and comprehensive equipment. Other modules in training are Te Reo Maori taken by Mihi Herewini, carving taught by George Waretini and weaving taken by Lisa Mareikura. The tutors are all from either Ohakune or Raetihi and were trained by the Wanganui Regional Employment Board. In an interview earlier this year, kokiri manager Noel Akapita talked about the reasons behind implementing the work skills programmes in the Waimarino. "We started the scheme because it was something we wanted to do for our own young unemployed job seekers, to give them the training that they want," he said. Previous 20-week beginners' courses in catering, cottage crafts, Te Reo Maori, landscaping, weaving, administration and music and drama were also well attended, with a total of 60 trainees successfully completing the courses.