Polynesian studies centre planned for the university

Press, 30 November 1982, Page 3

Polynesian studies centre planned for the university

A Pacific studies centre will be established at the University of Canterbury with funds from Professor John Macmillan Brown’s estate.

About $lOO,OOO, enough for four lectureships, would be available each year, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor A. D. Brownlie, told a University Council meeting yesterday. ' Scholars at the centre will study the history and ideas of the native peoples .of New Zealand and the Polynesian islands.

Study, will focus on the promotion, editing and translation of native records and traditions, and on other aspects that will help the people of Polynesia. Maoris and Polynesians will be encouraged to study at the. centre. Another priority will be to publish-study results widely.

Professor Brownlie said the Centre would probably be open by .1984.

Professor Macmillan Browni (1846-1935) was the first professor of English and classics — a position he held from 1873 to 1895 — at the then Canterbury University College. He also held the chairs of English, history and political economy between 1880 and 1898. '

Professor Brownlie said the establishment of a Pacific studies centre was the last in a series of provisions in Professor Macmillan Brown’s will that had to be dealt with in order. The others had been dealt with, and the trust administering the funds decided last year it was time to plan the centre.

The time was now right because the university had reached a “steady state,” he said.

Professor W. E. Wilmott said the centre would be a “visible link between this university and the Pacific Islands.”

The centre proposal was supported by the arts faculty, and he was sure it was in line with intentions expressed in Professor Macmillan Brown’s will, he said.

Professor Brownlie said he was not sure where the centre would be housed, but that it would have its own accommodation.

The proposal provides for the appointment of a director, visiting fellows, resident scholars and associates. The Macmillan Brown collection of about 30,000 books, journals and pamphlets .-on the Pacific will be available to researchers.

The following degrees werb conferred by the Chancellor, Miss J. M. Herbison:—

Master of arts with second class honours, division two: Leslie Goh (history). Bachelor of arts: Miriam Rose Dailey. Master of science: Ooi Keng Hoe (chemistry). Bachelor of science: Barry Straight. Lincoln College Bachelor of Engineering (agricultural): David John Winsbury White.