PACIFIC MEDIA CENTRE

Special Reports

NZ:  Laban calls for more investment in Pacific media research, 13 October 2007

Pacific Media Centre

Luamanuvao Winnie Laban and PMC director David Robie … unveiling the new PMC logo plaque. Photo: Alan Koon

Associate Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Luamanuvao Winnie Laban last night challenged New Zealand media and educational institutions to boost investment in research and coverage.

Speaking at the launch of the Pacific Media Centre, she said the occasion was “tangible proof” that AUT University had stepped up to the plate and was demonstrating true sector leadership.

“This centre demonstrates that commitment to our cultural diversity, but also to critical thinking and the pursuit of excellence,” she said.

Laban said Maori and Pacific issues needed to have a far greater representation in academic research, mirroring the growing participation of Pacific and Maori peoples in broader society.

She cited census figures projecting the Pacific population growth in New Zealand between 2001 and 2021 to be 58 percent - to well over 400,000.

The Maori population would grow by 28 percent, to about 750,000.

“The increasing importance of these ethnic groupings is very clear,” she said.

Laban said AUT more than held its own in terms of providing “meaningful access” to Pacific students. Last year, 11 percent of the university’s student body was made up of Pacific students – “well up on the national average of around 6 percent”.

“In providing this centre as part of your strategic planning, AUT is making a significant contribution to New Zealand’s academic growth,” she said.

The minister said the 2006 performance-based research fund (PBRF) audit showed a relatively low quality score for communications, journalism and media studies research across New Zealand universities.

The assessment clearly identified this as an area where improvements could be made, with institutions needing to promote and stimulate such research.

“This centre, and dedicated resources like it, can only lift and enhance the quality of research being undertaken, and I have no doubt that this will be the case.”

Laban also made a personal tribute to centre director Associate Professor David Robie.

“David, thank you for your work in the Asia-Pacific region and thank you for being a strong advocate for high-quality journalism, accountability and a free press in the Pacific,” she said.

“Your efforts have been tireless, and do not go unnoticed. I am confident that under your leadership, the Pacific Media Centre will flourish.”

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