Va'a o Tautai

Va’a refers to the double-hulled waka, tautai refers to skilled navigators. More about the meaning of Va'a o Tautai.

Va'a o Tautai 2019 team.

Va'a o Tautai provides a range of academic programmes and support for Pacific students, leads the way in relation to Pacific health teaching and research, and provides strategic leadership for Pacific developments and regional engagement for the Division of Health Sciences.

Va'a o Tautai is led by Faumuina Professor Fa'afetai Sopoaga.

The University of Otago Pacific Strategic Framework 2013-2020 is the key document that underpins the work being undertaken within Va’a o Tautai, as well as guiding Pacific engagements across the University.

Va’a o Tautai includes the Office of the Associate Dean (Pacific) (OADP), the Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit (PIRSSU), and the Centre for Pacific Health (CPH).

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Office of the Associate Dean (Pacific)

Provides strategic leadership and administration for Pacific matters in the Division of Health Sciences, including engagements in the Pacific region.

Read more about OADP activities, team members and committees:
Office of the Associate Dean (Pacific)

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Pacific Islands Research and Student Support Unit (PIRSSU)

Supports Pacific academic excellence in Health Sciences and aims to increase the Pacific health workforce through a number of tailored programmes.

Read more about PIRSSU programmes and the Student Support team:
PIRSSU website

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Centre for Pacific Health (CPH)

Supports Pacific health teaching and research across the Division of Health Sciences.

More about team members, teaching activities and research projects:
Centre for Pacific Health