Facilities For Study

Te Ao Hou, December 1955, Page 10

Facilities For Study Another topic of some concern was the question of study facilities. This may at first sight not appear to be such a very important matter but when a student is studying over those last few weeks before he faces the test of final examinations, having a place set apart for study is very necessary indeed. There he can be assured of quietness and an atmosphere of work and help which may make all the difference between a satisfying success and an unnecessary failure. After discussion it was clear that the need was great and we hope that on the basis of opinion and suggestions which arose during the week-end it will not be long before students in both colleges will have a study of their own, a base for their academic activities. Those who are thinking of a university career for their children can feel reassured that even though there have been difficulties in the past these difficulties are now being overcome. The direct efforts of the students themselves in making their needs known and in showing the way in which a better state of affairs can be reached, promise well for the future. In a busy week-end the gathering found time to discuss courses and exchange ideas about them, and even to send a remit to the college authorities in Wellington expressing their ‘belief and desire, that in the interest of scholarship and good citizenship the teaching of anthropology and Maori Studies at Victoria University College be not long delayed’. It was realised that such matters are not arranged casually or hurriedly, but here too, a matter which has rested on the minds of students was brought out and openly discussed and the results of that discussion directed into the hands of those upon whom responsibility for action rests. Dances, items, and social chit-chat filled all our spare time and helped make the hui one to remember and if possible repeat. One highlight amongst the very full round of activities was the elegant and capable what korero of the Auckland students well worthy of any marae. Thanks are due to those who organised the week-end—Peter Gordon, Pat Hohepa and Maurice Rikihana at the Auckland end and Toby Rikihana, Kem Tukukino, Horowai Ngarimu and Bill Taki in Wellington. And I must mention in particular the willing workers of Ngati Poneke whose tables were more than full and who, through their financial support made the hui possible.