What We Do - Tā Tātou Mahi

Introduction
Te Roopū Māori O Te Whare Wananga O Otago is the Māori Students' Association at the University of Otago. We are the Parallel Student Association to OUSA (Otago University Students Association).

What do we do?
The core function of Te Rito is to facilitate access to tertiary education.
Ko te mokopuna kei waho rā, tēra tō mauri;
Ka whakapiki, ka whakakake
Ka pū te ruha, ha hao te Rangatahi.

The Mission Statement of Te Rito (executive of Te Roopū Māori) is:
"Te Rito will establish an environment within the University of Otago that recognises - Taha, tinana, wairua, hinengaro, and whanau as paramount.
Te Rito shall remain an advocate for the 'recruitment, retention and results' of all Māori Students at the University".

The Kaupapa of Te Roopū Māori is directed by our constitution, where it states:

• To support and encourage education for Māori Students enrolled at the University of Otago
• To encourage tertiary education amongst Māori Students
• To liaise with the broader Māori Community at local, regional and national levels.

As Te Roopū we fulfil many functions on campus. As a political body we strive to represent Māori students interests within the University. This is achieved by Te Roopū's representation on committees at all levels within the University.

As well as political Te Roopū provides for the cultural and social needs of Māori students on campus.

Socially Te Roopū organises social and sporting events throughout the year.
We also work to provide a sense of whanaungatanga for Māori students at Otago.