Te Wiki, Empowering Māori Digital Inclusion
Background
Launched in 2011, Te Wiki is a pioneering initiative dedicated to advancing digital inclusion among Māori communities in Aotearoa New Zealand. Driven by a passionate team of Māori innovators, Te Wiki aims to bridge the digital divide and empower Māori to participate fully in the digital age.
Key Objectives
Te Wiki's mission is multifaceted, encompassing several key objectives: *
Increasing access to digital services and technologies for Māori individuals and whānau. *
Developing digital literacy skills within Māori communities. *
Encouraging Māori participation in the digital economy. *
Preserving and revitalizing Māori knowledge and culture through digital platforms. Empowering Communities
Te Wiki's approach focuses on empowering communities to lead their own digital transformation. Through a collaborative model, Te Wiki partners with local iwi, hapū, and community organizations to establish Digital Hubs. These Hubs provide a physical space for Māori to access computers, the internet, and digital training.
Digital Hubs
Digital Hubs serve as a vital resource for Māori communities, offering a range of services: *
Access to free Wi-Fi and computers *
Digital skills training and workshops *
Support with online job applications and government services *
A space for cultural expression and sharing Digital Literacy Programs
Te Wiki's digital literacy programs cater to the diverse needs of Māori learners. From beginner workshops to advanced training courses, these programs focus on practical skills, empowering participants to confidently navigate the digital landscape.
Tailored Training
Te Wiki recognizes the unique learning styles and aspirations of Māori communities. Training programs are tailored to accommodate different levels of digital literacy and cater to specific interests, such as digital storytelling, social media marketing, and online business development.
Māori Digital Economy
Te Wiki actively supports the growth of a vibrant Māori digital economy. By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, Te Wiki encourages Māori to harness the opportunities offered by the digital age.
Business Incubators
Te Wiki's business incubators provide mentoring, support, and resources to Māori entrepreneurs and start-ups. These incubators nurture the development of innovative digital solutions that address the needs of Māori communities.
Preserving Māori Knowledge
Digital platforms play a crucial role in preserving and revitalizing Māori knowledge and culture. Te Wiki supports initiatives that digitize and share Māori stories, language, and cultural heritage.
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori
Te Wiki's flagship initiative, Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, is a nationwide celebration of the Māori language. This annual event encourages the use of te reo Māori in the digital space, promoting its revitalization and cultural significance.
Conclusion: Te Wiki, A Catalyst for Digital Transformation
Te Wiki's unwavering commitment to empowering Māori through digital inclusion has made a profound impact on Aotearoa New Zealand. By providing accessible resources, training opportunities, and a supportive ecosystem, Te Wiki continues to champion the digital advancement of Māori communities. As the digital landscape evolves, Te Wiki remains a vital force, ensuring that Māori are equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.
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