Historic Indigenous-led MOU for Murdoch and Otago Universities

Staff and students from the University of Otago - Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka and Murdoch University gather outside Te Rangihīroa College during a visit to Otago this week.

Connecting as tangata whenuaacross New Zealand and Australia has provided the foundation for a significant agreement between the University of Otago - Ōtakou Whākaihu Wakaand Murdoch University.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the two parties in Dunedin this afternoon in a ceremony that included tikanga Māoriand Indigenous protocols of the Noongar people from Western Australia.

Three versions of the agreement were signed: Te Reo Māori, Whadjuk Noongar and English, making it the first multi-language Memorandum of Understanding signed by the University of Otago.

A nine-strong delegation of Indigenous staff and students from Murdoch University were in attendance, including Pro Vice-Chancellor First Nations Chanelle van den Berg and Noongar cultural adviser Olman Walley. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (a) Professor Jacinta Ruru signed the agreement on behalf of the University of Otago.

University of Otago Project Manager Karamea Pewhairangi says the visit is a historically significant opportunity that will strengthen the partnership and deepen the relationship between the two institutions.

"This visit allows us to engage directly and exchange ideas, ensuring that our collaboration on Indigenous exchange programmes is built on mutual understanding and respect," she says.

"Involvement from staff across campus, in particular Māori staff, is essential. Each team brings valuable expertise and perspective to discussions on enhancing Indigenous student experiences, sharing best practices, and aligning our strategic goals.

"By working together, we can ensure our commitment to Indigenous education is reflected not only in student experiences but also across academic, operational, and cultural initiatives."

The agreement includes Murdoch University's membership into the University of Otago's Tūrangawaewae, Pōkai Whenuaindigenous student exchange programme.

The Western Australia university becomes the fifth institution to partner with Otago on this important initiative.

• The delegation from Murdoch University took part in formal events during its visit to Otago.

• A panel discussion, featuring Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Māori) Professor Jacinta Ruru (centre), at Te Rangihiroa.

• University of Otago - Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka and Murdoch University delegation visit Te Nohoaka o Tukiauau / Sinclair Wetlands.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Māori) Professor Jacinta Ruru explains Murdoch University has a strong reputation for its academic strengths, particularly within research and innovation.

"The University excels in disciplines like environmental science, education, veterinary science, and sustainable development. It is also renowned for its strong focus on social justice, diversity, and Indigenous rights-an ethos that aligns closely with the mission of the TPW programme.

"Both Otago and Murdoch share a strong commitment to improving outcomes for Indigenous students. Murdoch, has a strategic goal to become the university of choice for First Nations students whilst we are on our own journey to becoming a Te Tiriti-led university.

"I look forward to walking alongside Murdoch on this path towards our shared future."

Speaking on behalf of Murdoch University, van den Berg says there is plenty to gain for both institutions, and the Indigenous groups they serve.

"This is a unique partnership and opportunity for students to learn about another Indigenous culture, build their understanding of what it means to be Indigenous, and be empowered by other Indigenous people doing incredible things in their spaces.

"It's never been done before at a university level and I'm so proud to be part of creating this pathway for First Nations students."