The Festival of Adult Learning, Ahurei Ākonga (formerly Adult Learners’ Week He Tangata Mātauranga) is a UNESCO initiative supported by the TEC and the NZ Commission for UNESCO.

The week, celebrated during the first week of September, gives ACE providers a great opportunity to let their communities know about the programmes they offer, provide free public events – from short taster courses to fun activities – and promote lifelong learning.

This year’s launch was hosted by Westland REAP at Hokitika’s historic Seaview Hall. Guests were welcomed by Hokitika’s lead kapa haka group and treated to delicious street food while viewing spectacular displays of greenstone carving, rusty relics from Westland Industrial Heritage Park, art work from the local Art4Me programme and information from local ACE providers.

While formally opening the festival week, Minister Damien O’Connor acknowledged the role of ACE in providing connections for people in small rural communities such as those in his West Coast electorate. He also endorsed the role of ACE in meeting the needs of individuals whose needs have not been met in the compulsory education sector.

A number of Innovative Provider Awards were presented to local organisations including Hokitika Libraries, Westland REAP and Westland Industrial Heritage Park. Local butcher, Brian West received an Exceptional Educator Award for his outstanding service mentoring and supporting more than 12 apprentices including those with learning difficulties; and Quyen Nguyen received an Outstanding Learner Award.

Festival of Adult Learning – around the country

More than 200 events involving thousands of participants took place during the Festival of Adult Learning. Barbershop choirs and workshops on photography, writing, gardening, active citizenship and digital skills took place in parks, malls, libraries, museums and rest homes. The Let’s Get Learning! call to action invited people to think about the benefits of lifelong learning and what they would like to learn.