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Talanoa Ako

Talanoa Ako

Talanoa Ako is an education programme for Pacific parents, families, and communities.

The programme supports them to build knowledge and confidence, enabling them to champion their children's education and learning journeys.

Older woman and a child sitting together looking at computer on child's lap.

On 25 March 2020, Aotearoa New Zealand, went into COVID-19 lockdown. At Alert Level 4, people had to stay home, no gatherings were allowed, and all public places were closed.

Realising that community partners could not deliver the Talanoa Ako programme face-to-face as they had normally, the Parent Information and Community Intelligence (PICI) Strategy and Integration team, at the Ministry of Education quickly considered alternative delivery options. The PICI team understood Pacific parents and families wanted to know how best to support their children’s education at home.

These Talanoa Ako COVID-19 case studies show the different and innovative ways Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga|Ministry of Education responded to urgent Pacific community needs and maintained their commitment to the community.

The approaches and activities undertaken form the basis for lasting positive change for families taking part in the Talanoa Ako programme.

We want to acknowledge the Talanoa Ako partners and teachers who shared their stories with us. These people participated enthusiastically and candidly throughout the COVID-19 repurposing. Their support and willingness to provide feedback to Te Tāhuhu o te Mātauranga | Ministry of Education made it possible to develop these case studies.