Category: Education

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Education – MIT and Unitec showcase united vision at ASB Polyfest

Source: Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) and Unitec

Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland – 11 March 2026 – One Waka. One Future. Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) and Unitec will present a powerful symbol of unity and shared purpose at ASB Polyfest 2026, unveiling a joint presence that reflects their unification this year as a single organisation serving our communities and learners in Tāmaki Makaurau-Auckland.

ASB Polyfest will be held across two events in 2026: the Pacific and Diversity Stages from 18–21 March at the Manukau Sports Bowl and Te Paparewa Māori stage from 30 March–2 April at the Due Drop Event Centre.
At the heart of MIT and Unitec’s presence this year will be a shared marquee – which brings to life Tāmaki Waka Hourua, a values framework guiding MIT and Unitec as they align their strengths, expertise and aspirations in one shared direction and purpose.
Waka Hourua, means ‘a double-hulled canoe’ and symbolises what were previously two institutions now travelling forward together alongside the communities they’ve proudly served for over 50 years.
Director Maori Education, Dr Wiremu Manaia explains: “This framework is grounded in core Māori principles:Whakapapa – the ancestral line that binds crew and vessel, Mana whakahaere – authority and responsibility to steer, Kotahitanga – unity of purpose, Mauri – the collective life force.”
These principles align with this year’s Polyfest theme, “Ko au ko te Taiao! Ko te Taiao ko au! He Toa Taiao Taiohi nō te Moana nui a Kiwa, āke, ake, ake!” (“The environment lives in me, as I live in it – a Pacific Youth Eco-Warrior for generations to come”).
MIT and Unitec’s shared presence represents a unified future under the guiding whakataukī:
“Nā te kaha ka whakatutuki, nā te kotahitanga ka whai hua.”
With strength we achieve; through unity we succeed.

A Defining Year. A Legacy Spanning More Than Two Decades
As Polyfest celebrates its 51st year, MIT and Unitec’s united presence marks a defining milestone.

In January 2026, the two institutions formally came together as the largest on campus provider of vocational education in Aotearoa New Zealand — a single, independent regional entity focused on delivering stronger outcomes for learners, industry and communities across Auckland.
Polyfest, widely recognised as Australasia’s largest secondary school cultural festival, will once again draw more than 80,000 visitors across six cultural stages representing the Cook Islands, Diversity, Māori, Niue, Samoa and Tonga.
MIT and Unitec’s presence at Polyfest builds on a longstanding relationship with the festival and the communities it represents.
“Although MIT and Unitec have come together as a new joint entity, our long and proud history of serving our communities and learners across Tāmaki Makaurau for more than 50 years remains as strong as ever. Our presence again this year at ASB Polyfest reflects that commitment,” says Executive Director, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga.
For more than 20 years, our institutions have stood alongside the festival — supporting ākonga (students) as they develop confidence, cultural pride and leadership.
“Unitec became the first tertiary sponsor of Polyfest in 2003. MIT proudly sponsored the Niue stage in 2010, and together we sponsored the Tongan stage in 2025. These milestones reflect a deep and enduring relationship with a festival that celebrates the identity, culture, and aspirations of our Pacific communities,” Peseta says.

Visible Unity, Stronger Pathways

Polyfest is more than a cultural festival — it’s a powerful platform where education can lift the hopes and aspirations of Pacific youth.
“Through events like this, we can help young people see the pathways available to them in education and employment with our schools,” Peseta says.
“At MIT and Unitec, we are incredibly proud of our Pacific learners. They are achieving great qualifications and going on to strong career outcomes, contributing their skills and leadership back into their communities and across the country.”
MIT and Unitec are strengthening pathways from secondary school to tertiary study and employment. As one organisation, they offer broader programme options, enhanced learner support, deeper industry connections and a regionally focused approach designed specifically for Auckland.
“We’re continuing to strengthen our relationships with schools, families and communities across the region. This week, we welcomed careers advisors from across Aucklan to connect with our teams and learn more about the opportunities available for their students,” Peseta says.
For high schools, whānau and communities attending Polyfest, the message is clear: MIT and Unitec are united, future-focused and committed to being the education provider of choice for Auckland’s young people — now and for generations to come.
Want to know more about our course offerings, programmes and career pathways at MIT and Unitec? Find us at the MIT and Unitec Marquee at Polyfest. Come meet our amazing kaimahi (staff), take a selfie at our activations, or leave a message.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/education-mit-and-unitec-showcase-united-vision-at-asb-polyfest/

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New Solicitor-General appointed

Source: New Zealand Government

Anna Adams has been appointed Solicitor-General and Chief Executive of the Crown Law Office, Attorney-General Judith Collins announced today.

“Ms Adams is an outstanding lawyer and leader,” Ms Collins says.

“She has extensive experience in public law and has worked for many years at the highest levels of our legal system.

“Ms Adams also brings strong private‑sector leadership, having chaired a major national law firm. That mix of legal expertise and practical leadership makes her exceptionally well suited to the role of Solicitor-General.

“She is widely respected for her judgement, integrity and commitment to the law. I am confident she will provide strong and effective leadership at Crown Law and continue the high standards expected of the Solicitor-General.”

The Solicitor-General is a key constitutional role, serving as the Crown’s principal legal adviser, providing advice to the Prime Minister, the Attorney-General and Cabinet, and leads the Crown Law Office. The Solicitor-General is appointed by, and serves at the pleasure of, the Governor-General.

Ms Adams is an expert in public law with 28 years of experience across advisory work and litigation. She has acted in criminal prosecutions and civil cases for both public and private sector clients and has appeared as lead counsel in more than 100 cases in the District Court, High Court and Court of Appeal, including complex coronial inquests and major inquiries.

Ms Adams is currently a barrister at Bankside Chambers. She previously spent 20 years at Meredith Connell, serving as lead partner for public and health law and later as Chair of the Board. She also holds governance roles, including on the board of PHARMAC.

Ms Adams holds an LLM from Yale Law School, an LLB (Hons) and a BA from the University of Auckland. She has been appointed for five years from 11 May 2026.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/new-solicitor-general-appointed/

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Small ideas, big impact: How simple digital tools help Auckland’s factories thrive

Source: Auckland Council

If you travel past Auckland’s many factories, it’s not immediately obvious how much these businesses contribute to our everyday life. But they do, producing everything from stainless-steel tubing to food products, plastics, electronics and specialist components. 

They’re also a very important part of New Zealand’s prosperity. Auckland’s manufacturing firms keep thousands of people in work and contribute billions to the economy. In the year to the end of March 2025, Auckland’s manufacturing sector contributed more than $12.5 billion to New Zealand’s GDP, more than a third of the country’s total manufacturing contribution.   

Yet behind the factory doors, many of these businesses face a common challenge – how to keep up in a world where digital technology is moving faster than ever. 

A new initiative called Digital Manufacturing Light (DMLight) is looking to change that. DMLight helps small factories add simple, low-cost digital tools to their existing machines and processes – things like basic sensors and dashboards that show what’s happening on the factory floor in real time.  

Tested and adopted from a University of Cambridge initiative by the University of Auckland with support and investment from Auckland Council, DMLight shows that a little bit of tech can go a long way to improve productivity. 

Accessible, low-cost DMLight digital tools can quickly help factory staff spot problems sooner and avoid bottlenecks. A sensor showing when a machine stops unexpectedly can save hours of guesswork – hours saved can mean fewer delays and stronger local businesses.  

For manufacturing firms, using DMLight is like upgrading your existing car with new sensors rather than buying a brand-new vehicle.  

The Government has now committed up to $475,000 per year for three years to expand DMLight. Starting 1 April 2026, the programme will support at least 180 small and medium-sized manufacturers across Auckland, Waikato, Northland and Bay of Plenty. Support includes help choosing the right digital tools, hands-on installation, and training so local workers can install, run and maintain the technology themselves. 

Case study 

During the Auckland pilot for DMLight, the University of Auckland and Auckland Council team worked with companies such Spiraweld Stainless Ltd, which retrofitted its older, semi-automatic spiral pipe welding machine using the DMLight method. The company added low-cost, off‑the‑shelf components (computer‑vision camera, stepper motor actuator, Raspberry Pi controller and HMI) to automate welding-gap control with minimal disruption and cost. No existing equipment needed to be replaced – just the addition of approximately $1000 in hardware of low-cost tools to give operators clearer information. 

To learn more 

Any small or medium-sized manufacturer in Auckland, Waikato, Northland and Bay of Plenty can reach out to the programme team at dmlight@auckland.ac.nz to learn more or register interest. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/small-ideas-big-impact-how-simple-digital-tools-help-aucklands-factories-thrive/

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Education sector Guidance will help frontline workers

Source: Privacy Commissioner

New privacy guidance, launched today, will give people working in the education sector a better understand about how to use and protect personal information, the Privacy Commissioner says. 

 

“Privacy, especially when it relates to children and young people, can be a complex area.

 

“Our new guidance focuses on the specific needs of those working within the education sector and uses a range of real-world scenarios to help them make good privacy decisions with confidence,” Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster says.

 

Topics include the rights of children and young people, education technology, and health and learning support information. Other areas covered are managing information requests, keeping learner information safe, unique identifiers, and managing privacy incidents.

 

The use of digital technologies is one key area explored, including the use of online learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and parent communication tools. There is also a checklist providing a list of questions to ask when undertaking due diligence on these digital tools.

 

Special topic chapters focus on the relevant areas of the Privacy Act and the applicable privacy principles, including how these can be applied across the lifecycle of information, from collection through to deletion.

 

“One of our aims is to raise awareness of the various privacy risks children face. Protecting children is also a major area of interest for the public, with our most recent privacy survey recording the highest level of concern (67%) for children’s privacy, says Mr Webster.

 

“Whether you’re a teacher, a principal, an administrator, a member of a school board, a speech language therapist, a guidance counsellor, a music teacher, operate an ECE service, or are a service provider with services for learners, this guidance has been created for you.”

 

This guidance follows on from recent guidance on information sharing, photographing and filming of children and young people, best practice when responding to requests for a child or young person’s personal information, and how to help children, young people and their parents protect their privacy while exploring the online world.

 

Read the full guidance here.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/education-sector-guidance-will-help-frontline-workers/

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Court ruling ‘brought justice to Te Tai Tokerau voters’, Te Pāti Māori MP Mariameno Kapa-Kingi says

Source: Radio New Zealand

Mariameno Kapa-Kingi. Anneke Smith / RNZ

MP Mariameno Kapa-Kingi says Justice Radich “brought justice to Te Tai Tokerau voters” when he ruled her expulsion from Te Pāti Māori “unlawful”.

It comes as a political commentator says the party might be looking to distance itself from the drama of last year, and focus on the election ahead.

The formally reinstated MP took to social media on Tuesday night to celebrate the verdict, saying her intention in bringing the case was not to incite division, but “seek clarity and ensure the processes we hold ourselves to – particularly those grounded in tikanga, are honoured”.

“Finally, today, the truth has risen,” Kapa-Kingi said following the release of the verdict on Tuesday afternoon, which ruled her suspension and subsequent expulsion as “unlawful”.

Radich said the tikanga principles that were infused into the kawa document “were not mentioned or applied” in relation to her suspension.

“Perhaps most fundamentally, the relevant tikanga principles – which must inform the way in which a decision-maker considers the kawa’s rules – were not applied in any way,” Radich said.

“This decision on its own will not heal all the mamae, but it is an important first step,” Kapa-Kingi said online.

Kapa-Kingi also mentioned she looked forward to meeting with those from Te Tai Tokerau to discuss their future strategy for the election in coming weeks.

She finished by acknowledging this week belonged to “my darling nephew Peeni Henare”, whose many years of service “deserve recognition and respect”.

Mike Colson KC – Kapa-Kingi’s lawyer – told RNZ it was nice to see an “unjust situation rectified”.

Mike Colson KC. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

He was particularly interested in the judge’s assessment of the party breaching its own tikanga, acknowledging tikanga was a “fairly hot topic” amongst the legal profession at the moment.

“Many judges are slightly nervous dealing with it, or – one might expect very respectful of it.

“Here we had such a clear explanation of what the tikanga was of the party, and I thought it was quite brave and right of the judge to find that kawa and tikanga had been breached.”

He also acknowledged it might be considered “unusual” for a judge to “direct a party to take an action within Parliament”.

But Colson said the situation was so clear, and there was a lack of clarity last time as to whether that extra step was necessary.

“The judge thought it was proper to do so and to direct them to give a notice to the speaker.”

He said it was an unusual set of circumstances, and did not think it would set a major precedent.

The defendants had argued the case was a contractual matter, and should be dealt with privately, but Colson said the judge was quick to point out the “public character of the proceeding”, and that it was not just Kapa-Kingi’s case, but her electorate who voted her in.

“They, of course, also had a role to play and a voice to be heard, and that really pushed into very much the public arena.”

What will happen now?

On Tuesday Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi told reporters he had attempted to make contact with Kapa-Kingi, but it was not clear what the process was for her reinstatement or how the apparent rift would be addressed.

Associate professor in politics at Victoria University, Lara Greaves, told RNZ she had expected this ruling from the case.

She explained Te Pāti Māori’s constitution “wasn’t particularly clear”, and it was “very hard” to figure out if the party had followed the rules in terms of her expulsion.

Greaves thinks the decision to go to court was Kapa-Kingi’s attempt at staying with the party, “to change it from the inside,”, and this was “politics pushing up against the law”.

“Legally, there’s a judgment, here that Kapa-Kingi is still part of the party, but it’s not clear what will happen next.”

Political scientist & Victoria University of Wellington Associate Professor Dr Lara Greaves RNZ

She said the co-leaders had not spoken about the ruling much, and they had expressed a desire to limit any further drama, so “for a lot of us, it’s just going to be a case of waiting and seeing what happens”.

“Being within a political party where you’ve been expelled is probably not a comfortable place,” Greaves said.

She pointed to potential scenarios of further attempts at expulsion or further issues raised, “there’s still a lot of things that could happen here and happen here”.

Greaves said a lot of people, including herself, had made the assessment there was a “bit too much commentary” taking place last year from the party and others involved.

“So, just being a bit quieter might be a good solution there.

“Te Pāti Māori may have listened to a lot of their critics, listened to a lot of their whānau and communities, and thought – we need to keep this out of the media and keep a bit quiet on it going forward.”

Greaves also pointed to the Māori seats, and Labour and the Greens running strong candidates this election, “there are quite a few potential threats to their electoral success, so it’s kind of important that [Te Pāti Māori] sort it out now and figure out what they’re doing in order to get success in the election”.

“Te Pāti Māori may have made a decision in a way to hope that voters think that these issues are behind them and to move forward constructively.”

She said there would be a lot of scrutiny on the dynamics between Kapa-Kingi and the party leadership in the coming months, as well as a focus on MPs Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke and Oriini Kaipara and how they were fitting into the party.

It was possible, she said, that there would be enough time between the “drama” last year to the election this year that people did forgive and forget, “that would actually be a pretty good comeback”.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/court-ruling-brought-justice-to-te-tai-tokerau-voters-te-pati-maori-mp-mariameno-kapa-kingi-says/

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Urgent Waitangi Tribunal inquiry into government’s removal of schools’ Treaty obligations

Source: Radio New Zealand

The tino rangatiratanga haki (flag) outside Parliament on the day of the Treaty Principles Bill introduction. RNZ / Emma Andrews

The Waitangi Tribunal has granted urgency to an inquiry into the government’s decision to scrap school boards’ legal duty to give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and reset Te Mātaiaho, the New Zealand Curriculum.

Northland iwi Ngāti Hine and hapū Te Kapotai, alongside the New Zealand Educational Institute (NZEI), filed the claim in November last year, arguing the changes undermined Māori rangatiratanga, partnership and equity in education.

The claimants say the removal of Treaty obligations from school boards risks causing significant and irreversible harm to Māori learners and their whānau.

In the Waitangi Tribunal’s decision, it said the changes had constitutional significance and met the threshold for urgency.

“Any legislative change altering the nature and manner of the Crown’s Treaty obligations has a constitutional significance. That is especially so in a case where Māori have not been consulted.”

While the Tribunal noted the Crown had acknowledged there was no engagement with Māori on the decision to amend the law, it said removing the statutory obligation for school boards to give effect to Te Tiriti had “immediate consequences for the status of the Treaty and for tamariki Māori within the education system”.

The Tribunal also rejected the Crown’s argument that other inquiries or future policy reviews could address the issue, saying those pathways would not provide “timely or targeted scrutiny”.

The Treaty of Waitangi. RNZ / Quin Tauetau

The requirement for school boards to give effect to Te Tiriti was introduced in 2020 as part of reforms to the Education and Training Act.

The government later removed the provision in 2025, with Education Minister Erica Stanford saying at the time of the anouncement that Treaty obligations sit with the Crown, not schools.

“School boards should have direction and we are giving very clear direction. You need to ensure equitable outcomes for Māori students, you need to be offering te reo Māori and you need to be culturally competent,” she said at the time.

Since the change, more than 1800 kura – around 70 percent of schools across Aotearoa – had publicly reaffirmed they would continue giving effect to Te Tiriti.

The Tribunal acknowledged the number of schools that had pledged to continue honouring Te Tiriti in its decision. However, it said the absence of a statutory framework could make those commitments inconsistent across the edcation system.

NZEI President Ripeka Lessels, the head of the country’s largest education sector union. NZEI supplied

NZEI Te Riu Roa president and claimant Ripeka Lessels welcomed the Tribunal’s decision, saying it sent a strong signal about the seriousness of the issue.

“I’m absolutely elated that they have granted urgency. It isn’t something that is done lightly for the Waitangi Tribunal,” she told RNZ.

Lessels said the decision to grant urgency reflected growing public and sector support for Te Tiriti.

“There was a time in our history where we didn’t have it, we didn’t have to give effect to it at all. And so nobody did. Nobody taught it. Nobody made references to it. Schools certainly didn’t see the importance of it until the Education and Training Act put in section 127. So that’s why it’s really, really important that we challenge what this government has unilaterally decided around moving the Te Tiriti o Waitangi.”

She said removing the Treaty obligation signalled where the government’s priorities lay.

“By removing section 127 of the Education and Training Act, they are clearly deprioritising Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, te reo Māori, tikanga and mātauranga Māori from legislation.”

Lessels said the Tribunal inquiry was an opportunity to challenge the government’s decision.

“We have to challenge this removal. We don’t want future generations looking back and thinking this happened and nobody stood up against it.”

Ngāti Hine leader Waihoroi “Wassi” Shortland speaks at Ruapekapeka Pā. RNZ / Peter de Graaf

Speaking to RNZ, Ngāti Hine kaumātua and claimant Te Waihoroi Shortland said removing the obligation felt politically motivated.

“When you have it dismissed out of hand, for no other reason than people feel like they are losing something or they’re giving up something to Māori when they recognise the articles of Te Tiriti in any way, shape or form … it plays out to a largely Pākehā constituent that has no time to consider these things,” he said.

“People forget that two nations made this deal (Te Tiriti o Waitangi). One of them was Māori and one of them was the Crown of England … then one nation turns around and swallows the other one up and says, everything we decide is for your good.

“It’s been that way for 186 years. These kind of actions remind us that we haven’t moved very far in all of that time.”

Asked why Ngāti Hine felt it was important to file a claim, Shortland said his people were following the guidance of their tūpuna, Te Ruku Kawiti.

“In his ōhaki to Ngāti Hine – his last legacy statement to Ngāti Hine – he challenged all Ngāti Hine descendants to hold fast to our faith and to protect the commitments of our tūpuna … at any time that the words of the document that they signed up to are challenged, then Ngāti Hine must stand and oppose,” he told RNZ.

“We often can’t rely on the system of government to do that for us. Even with two sides of the Parliament, it doesn’t matter which one is in. It usually is a case that they both begin in their own interests first, and Māori are way, way in the distance second.”

In a statement to RNZ, Education Minister Erica Stanford said she was unable to comment.

“As the matter is currently before the Tribunal it would not be appropriate for me to comment.”

A date was yet to be set for the hearings.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/urgent-waitangi-tribunal-inquiry-into-governments-removal-of-schools-treaty-obligations/

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Counsellors facing growing demand,shrinking workforce, funding pressures – industry body

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Association of Counsellors says there is growing demand for counselling – alongside a shrinking workforce and funding pressures. MICROGEN IMAGES/SCIENCE PHOTO LI

Counsellors say long wait lists and not enough publicly funded services are preventing people seeking the help they need.

The Association of Counsellors said its Counselling Workforce Report 2025 found growing demand for counselling – alongside a shrinking workforce and funding pressures.

President Huhana Pene said the lack of public funding for sessions was putting the handbrake on help.

“New Zealand has a qualified counselling workforce that wants to help,” Pene said, “But system barriers mean many people who need counselling are waiting too long or missing out altogether.”

Pene said there were also concerns about the workforce – with more than half working part-time with low or insecure incomes.

Many planned to reduce their practice, retire or leave the profession within two years.

“Without changes to funding and employment conditions, we risk losing experienced counsellors at a time when demand for support continues to grow,” Pene said.

Schools were under particular pressure, with counsellors reporting a steady flow of students seeking support and increasingly complex needs.

Many said they were forced to prioritise students in crisis, leaving limited time for preventative support.

Pene said practical solutions were available – improving funding stability for non-government organisations, increasing the ratio of counsellors to students in schools to 1:400, and strengthening recognition of the profession would all improve access to counselling.

“Counselling is a vital part of New Zealand’s mental health support, and if we address some of these barriers, counsellors would be better able to help many more people when they need it.”

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/counsellors-facing-growing-demandshrinking-workforce-funding-pressures-industry-body/

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Singapore University of Social Sciences Expands Regional Footprint in China with Launch of Success Academy in Chongqing

Source: Media Outreach

New Academy and Shenyang satellite office strengthen SUSS’ visibility and partnerships across Western and Northeast China.

CHONGQING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 March 2026 – The Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) today launched the SUSS Success Academy in Chongqing in collaboration with Raffles Young Academy (RYA) Pte Ltd and announced the establishment of a satellite office in Shenyang. Building on its Success Academies in Beijing and Shenzhen, the Academy strengthens SUSS’ presence in China and supports its growing engagement across Western and Northeast China.

Guests and partners at the launch event of the Success Academy in Chongqing. (From L-R: Dr Yap Meen Sheng, Assistant Provost, SUSS; Mr Lennon Tan, President, Singapore Manufacturing Federation; Mr Li Xunfu, Deputy Director of Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce; Prof Tan Tai Yong, President, SUSS; Mr Samuel Ng, Executive Chairman, Raffles Young Academy; Associate Professor Justina Tan, Vice President, Strategic & Partnership Engagement)

The launch was commemorated with an opening ceremony at the CCI Gallery, attended by close to 70 guests from China and Singapore, including representatives from institutions of higher learning, and industry and community partners. The ceremony was presided by Vice-Consul (Political) Ms. Mavis Tan, Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore, Chengdu and Mr. Li Xunfu, Deputy Director of Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce.

Success Academy to connect partners from Singapore and China

Anchored in SUSS’ commitment to lifelong learning and creating social impact, the Academy will serve as a key nexus for academic and industry partners from both countries. Through cross-cultural collaboration and practice-oriented learning, it also aims to develop future-ready talent equipped to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.

RYA is an education and talent development organisation aimed at nurturing future-ready talent through industry-oriented learning and international exposure. RYA will bring its networks and local expertise to support and enhance the Academy’s initiatives.

Through the Academy, SUSS will provide opportunities for students from SUSS and other Singapore pre-tertiary and tertiary institutions to co-learn and co-innovate with peers in China. These include interdisciplinary global learning courses, impact startup and venture builder programmes, industry-based immersions and student exchanges. SUSS students will also gain regional exposure through internships and other workplace learning opportunities. In addition, the Academy will support SUSS in working with universities and organisations in China to jointly design and deliver industry-relevant courses and programmes for students and executives.

Extending engagement into Northeast China with Shenyang satellite office

To further deepen its engagement in Northeast China, SUSS will launch a satellite office in Shenyang on 11 March 2026 under the Success Academy in Chongqing. This office will support SUSS’ initiatives in Liaoning Province and surrounding areas, including Dalian. In addition, three Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) will be signed with the following organisations:

  • Shenyang University of Chemical Technology (SYUCT): Collaborative development of a Master’s degree programme in Social Work, fostering cross-border knowledge exchange, curriculum innovation, and talent development to address evolving social service needs.
  • North-East Institute of Population and Social Development: Joint research endeavours, professional development programmes, and meaningful academia-industry partnerships to generate evidence-based solutions, build capabilities, and promote active ageing ecosystems that benefit individuals and communities.

Professor Tan Tai Yong, President of SUSS, said, “China is an important partner for SUSS as we expand opportunities for our students and strengthen collaboration across Asia. The launch of the Success Academy in Chongqing allows us to work more closely with universities, industry and community partners in Western and Northeast China, and to deliver applied, practice-oriented education that responds to real-world needs. Our partnership with Raffles Young Academy reflects our shared commitment to developing future-ready talent and supporting professional growth across the region.”

Mr. Samuel Ng, Executive Chairman, RYA, said, “Our collaboration with the Singapore University of Social Sciences reflects a shared belief in applied, practice-oriented education and in preparing students and enterprises to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Chongqing’s strategic position as a gateway to Western China and a hub for industry and connectivity makes it an ideal location for immersive, industry-linked education. This partnership represents a long-term commitment to building enduring bridges between students and industry, between academia and practice, and between Singapore and China.”

The launch of the Success Academy in Chongqing is part of SUSS’ broader expansion across Asia. Since 2023, SUSS has established Success Academies in Beijing, Shenzhen, Ho Chi Minh City Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Manila and Mumbai.

For more information, visit www.suss.edu.sg/success-academy.

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Hashtag: #SUSS

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/singapore-university-of-social-sciences-expands-regional-footprint-in-china-with-launch-of-success-academy-in-chongqing/

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MCKL Students Organise Mega Sports Carnival ’26 to Support MND Malaysia

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 March 2026 – A group of A-Level students from Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL) will be hosting the Mega Sports Carnival ’26 on 28 March 2026 at the MCKL, Kuala Lumpur campus, in collaboration with MND Malaysia (Motor Neurone Disease Malaysia). This event is to raise funds and increase awareness for individuals affected by Motor Neurone Disease.

The student-led initiative is organised by Lee Yi Ying, Siah Kai Jing, Chu Yi Shyian, Muhammad Murtaza Karimi, Sarveshrau, and Lee Yi Hui as part of the Service Learning component of their A-Level programme. The project aims to combine sports, community engagement, and education to support a meaningful social cause.

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive neurological condition that affects muscle movement and significantly impacts the quality of life of patients and their families.

“We wanted to create an event that not only raises funds but also increases awareness among young people about Motor Neurone Disease,” said Sarveshrau, one of the student organisers. “Through sports and community participation, we hope to encourage more people to learn about MND and support the important work done by MND Malaysia.”

The organisers are also proud to announce sponsorship support from Yakult Malaysia, whose contribution helps enhance the event experience and support the fundraising efforts.

The sports carnival will feature several Under-21 sporting categories, including:

  • Basketball (3v3) — RM40 per team
  • Badminton (Singles & Doubles) — RM20 per team
  • Table Tennis (Singles) — RM15 per person
  • Football (7 players per team) — RM50 per team
  • Volleyball (6 players per team) — RM40 per team

All participants, except football and volleyball players, will need to attend a Welcoming Ceremony organised jointly by MCKL and MND Malaysia before the games begin.

AGENDA

Time Programme
7.15 a.m. Participant Registration
7.30 a.m. – 8.15 a.m. Welcoming Ceremony by MCKL & MND Malaysia

(Compulsory for all participants except football and volleyball players)
8.15 a.m. onwards Basketball, Badminton, and Table Tennis Match Begins
12.00 p.m. Morning Session Medal Ceremony
1.00 p.m. – 2.00 p.m. Special Sharing Session by Yakult Malaysia (Event Sponspor)
3.00 p.m. onwards Football and Volleyball Matches Begin
6.30 p.m. Football & Volleyball Medal Ceremony

The top three winners in each category will receive medals, while e-certificates will be awarded to all participants. All profits raised from the carnival will be fully donated to MND Malaysia to support patient care, advocacy, and awareness initiatives.

Students of MCK and members of the public are encouraged to participate and support the cause by registering through the official form:

Registration Link
https://forms.gle/FqvEAEFDwpJKBJJ98

Media Contact

Sarveshrau A/L Magentharau

A-Level Service Learning Team

Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL)

Telephone: +60 16-200 4608

Instagram: @mnd_sports_carnival

 Monisha Sri

Executive, Public Relations & Communications

Methodist College Kuala Lumpur

Telephone: (603) 2274 1851 Ext: 164

Email: monisha.sk@mckl.edu.my

Website: https://mckl.edu.my/

https://mckl.edu.my/
https://www.linkedin.com/school/methodist-college-kuala-lumpur/
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Hashtag: #mckl #studentinitiative #methodistcollegekualalumpur #KLCollege #higherstudies

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/mckl-students-organise-mega-sports-carnival-26-to-support-mnd-malaysia/

Posted on

National Party politicians rule out leadership bid

Source: Radio New Zealand

Education Minister Erica Stanford has often been tipped as a possible leadership contender. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

Education Minister Erica Stanford has been damning in her assessment of last week’s disastrous poll result for National, calling it a “bad week” for the party and for the caucus.

Speculation has been swirling about Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s leadership after the Taxpayers’ Union Curia Poll result put National on 28.4 per cent – the party’s lowest result since Luxon became leader.

Asked on Tuesday whether she was happy with the result, Stanford – often tipped as a possible leadership contender – said: “No, of course not”.

“We’ve got to do a lot better as a party, all of us pull together, we’ve got to respect what voters are telling us,” she said.

In addition to the horror poll, Luxon also struggled to articulate the government’s position on the Iran conflict and flubbed his answers to questions on the same topic at his post-Cabinet press conference last week.

Asked whether it was a bad week for the prime minister, Stanford said the result reflected poorly on the party.

“I would say it’s a bad week for the National Party and our caucus, and we’ve got to do better all of us together, pull together and remember that our focus is on the New Zealand people, and in my case, raising student achievement,” Stanford said.

Any speculation she was vying for the top job was “reporters interviewing their own typewriters”, Stanford said, adding that she supported the prime minister “100 percent”.

On Tuesday afternoon, Stanford ruled out making any bids for the leadership.

“We have a leader, he’s doing a really good job, and I am part of a high-performing team just doing my job, reforming the education system.”

In a busy day in Parliament – when the Covid-19 inquiry report was released, National MP and Minister Shane Reti announced his retirement, and MP Mariameno Kapa-Kingi was reinstated to Te Pāti Māori by the High Court – National Party ministers and backbenchers were resolute in their support of the prime minister.

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said he had “no intentions” to run for the top job. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said he backed Luxon and looked forward to the coming election campaign.

Asked whether he wanted to be the leader, he repeatedly said he had “no intentions” to run for the top job but also refused to rule out a future bid.

“It’s got nothing to do with me… I’m not here to answer questions about me running for the leadership, because, as you know, I support the prime minister.”

Tim Costley, MP for Ōtaki, said that asking Luxon to step down, should his polling worsen, had never crossed his mind.

“We’ve got a strong caucus. We’ve got 49. We’re looking great.”

Banks Peninsula MP Vanessa Weenink said she was not concerned about her seat, which was one of the most marginal at the last election.

“I’m not worried about my job. I’m not worried about my seat. I’m worried about the country if we have an alternative government.”

Takinini MP Rima Nakhle put her level of support for the prime minister at “123 percent”, while Upper Harbour MP Cameron Brewer said the caucus was unified.

“We respect the guy, we’re tight, we’re disciplined, and you can see that with all our answers in the last 72 hours. You know, we actually just want to get on with the job.”

The prime minister himself continued to brush off concerns about the poll, telling reporters on Tuesday that the party’s caucus meeting would feature normal business, adding the team was “really united, really focused, really driven”.

But Labour leader Chris Hipkins blasted National for getting itself into “one heck of a mess”.

“They promised they were going to fix the economy, they’ve shrunk it. They promised they were going to get Kiwis into work, more Kiwis are unemployed now. They promised they were going to fix government debt, government debt’s gone up. They promised they were going to fix the cost of living, the cost of living’s got harder for New Zealand households.

“Whether it’s Christopher Luxon or one of the other ministers who was involved in all of those decisions leading the National Party, the problem is they haven’t done what they said they were going to do.”

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/national-party-politicians-rule-out-leadership-bid/

Posted on

Police acknowledge sentencing of Keith Wicks-Cairns

Source: New Zealand Police

Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Keith Wicks-Cairns in the High Court at Dunedin today.

Wicks-Cairns was sentenced to 11 years imprisonment with a non-parole period of seven years and three months.

Detective Sergeant Reece Munro says this is a positive outcome for the victims and our community.

“We are glad to see action taken against this offender, who caused harm to not only his victims, but the wider community.

“We also want to congratulate the tireless commitment in the wider North Dunedin area by our partners, led by University of Otago proctor Dave Scott.

“It is satisfying to know that individuals such as the proctor are tirelessly advocating for their community.”

Police have and will continue to undertake prevention activity in the wider Dunedin area to prevent such offences.

“We look forward to continuing to work with our partners, including the Dunedin City Council, to build on our community’s crime prevention and deterrence CCTV networks.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/police-acknowledge-sentencing-of-keith-wicks-cairns/

Posted on

Battle of Kororāreka remembrance ceremony to mark key moment in history of Aotearoa

Source: Radio New Zealand

People gather at dawn atop Maiki Hill, or Flagstaff Hill, for the 175th anniversary of the Battle of Kororāreka in 2020. Peter de Graaf

A ceremony on a Bay of Islands hilltop at dawn on Wednesday aims to preserve the memory of a war that changed New Zealand history – and make sure the stories are passed on to a new generation.

Early on 11 March, 1845, fighters loyal to Ngāpuhi chief Hone Heke chopped down the flagpole at Russell, then still better known as Kororāreka, for the fourth time.

The felling of the flagstaff was a signal for men led by Hone Heke and Ngāti Hine chief Te Ruki Kawiti to attack the Bay of Islands town.

In the ensuing battle most of the town’s European inhabitants were evacuated to Auckland, and about 20 Māori and 13 Britons were killed.

It was the start of the wider Northern War which raged until early 1846, culminating in the famous, but inconclusive, battle of Ruapekapeka Pā.

Kororāreka Marae chairwoman Deb Rewiri said remembering events such as the Battle of Kororāreka was as important as observing Anzac Day.

“Because if you think about it, the foundation of Aotearoa New Zealand was being played out here in the North at that time,” Rewiri said.

She expected a large crowd for Wednesday’s 181st anniversary because of the nationwide interest sparked by the Battle of Ruapekapeka Pā commemorations in January.

The ceremony would begin at 6.45am with a service at Maiki Hill, or Flagstaff Hill, then continue at Christ Church, New Zealand’s oldest surviving church.

Navy sailor Brandyn Sigley lays a wreath at the HMS Hazard memorial during the 175th anniversary commemorations of the Battle of Kororāreka in 2020. Peter de Graaf

There, members of the Royal New Zealand Navy would lay a wreath at the grave of sailors from the HMS Hazard who died in the battle.

Karakia would also be held at a nearby kōhatu (stone) marking the spot where the first blood was spilled.

Commemorations would wrap up at Haratu Marae, on the town’s waterfront, where children from Te Kura o Kororāreka (Russell School) would raise a new kara (flag) and be presented with a paraikete (blanket) embroidered with their impressions of the battle.

Rewiri said she was inspired to get local children involved after attending Treaty commemorations in Mangungu, in South Hokianga, last month.

The outbreak of war in the Middle East made tomorrow’s ceremony all the more relevant.

“We’re a little bit removed from that, but also I think it’s not so much about a war going on, but there’s certainly levels of deprivation within our own country, so holding fast to the past reminds us of how resilient and purposeful our tūpuna were. Their aim was to help us to grow so that we are all thriving, and this is what we hope to do.”

Kororāreka Marae chairwoman Deb Rewiri. RNZ / Peter de Graaf

She said the reasons Hone Heke and Kawiti went in to battle included what they saw as erosion of their tino rangatiratanga and the government’s failure to adhere to Te Tiriti, signed just five years earlier.

At the Ruapekapeka commemorations in January, Ngāti Hine leader Pita Tipene said economic factors also played a part, with the government’s decision to shift the capital from Ōkiato (near Russell) to Auckland leading to a sharp drop in trade.

Rewiri said during the battle, fighters gave fleeing civilians safe passage out to ships waiting to evacuate them to Auckland.

“They didn’t want to harm those people. Their disagreement was not with them but with the Crown, and that continues today. We’re in 2026 and we still have that battle, back at the Crown.”

Rewiri said there was little parking at Maiki Hill so those keen to take part in the dawn ceremony were encouraged to take one of the shuttles leaving from Haratu Marae and Kororāreka Museum starting at 6.15am.

For those coming across the water, the first car ferry from Ōpua was due to leave at 6am.

The current flagpole atop Te Maiki Hill was erected in 1858 by Maihi Parāone Kawiti, a son of Te Ruki Kawiti, as a symbol of national unity and reconciliation.

It survived a wild fire in 1913 and serious vandalism in 2022.

The new flag to be raised at Haratu Marae, called Kororāreka Whakaora, was designed by Lyall Hakaraia (Ngāti Kuta, Patukeha) of the British Museum.

Rewiri said about 200 people were expected to take part in the commemorations.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/battle-of-kororareka-remembrance-ceremony-to-mark-key-moment-in-history-of-aotearoa/

Posted on

The real price of Buy Now Pay Later

Source: Radio New Zealand

Buy Now Pay Later schemes including Afterpay are popular with consumers, with one million Kiwis using them. Screenshot

Financial watchdogs want the rules about Buy Now Pay Later schemes strengthened, saying the last tweak didn’t work.

It’s been described as both a lifeline, and a trap.

Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) has been in New Zealand for about eight years. It’s still a relatively new product, but one million Kiwis use one of the four companies providing it.

However a new report from Consumer NZ and FinCap, with research done by Victoria University, has raised concerns about the damage BNPLs are doing to some borrowers.

The report says a regulatory tweak in the rules in 2024 did nothing to help prevent harm, and financial mentors report people are trying to break into their KiwiSaver schemes to pay their debt.

The report recommends tightening the rules further to get better protection for consumers.

Today on The Detail, we talk to Michael Saadat, the International Head of Policy at Block, Afterpay’s Australian parent company, who says it’s not necessary for the New Zealand government to bring in any additional regulation.

“We think the evidence and the data should really drive any consideration of whether new regulation is required, and the data clearly shows that additional regulation, when it exists for other credit products, hasn’t delivered better consumer outcomes.”

He says such extra regulation brings additional costs which ultimately have to be passed on to consumers, “but also, we don’t want a situation where for example it’s harder for Kiwis to get access to a product like Afterpay, and that means that they have to go and find alternatives which are much more expensive, much less safe … and we just don’t think that’s a great outcome.

“We think the current regulatory settings have struck the right balance.”

Saadat says the New Zealand regulations are a clear example of how you can balance consumer protections with the need to promote innovation and foster safer consumer products.

He says our credit data collection agency, Centrix, which Afterpay must provide reports to, says New Zealanders who use BNPL products are in a healthy position.

“Traditional credit products like personal loans, credit cards and mortgages actually remain the primary drivers of hardship for New Zealanders.”

Centrix data says that 97 percent of the New Zealand BNPL transactions over Black Friday and Cyber Monday were paid off before or on the dates payments were due.

“Which again tells you that consumers are using the product in the way it was meant to be used. They’re using it wisely, it’s helping them budget for their purchases, and they’re not getting into trouble.

“It really is becoming a really mainstream product that consumers are using to help manage their spending,” Saadat says.

Asked why the bad press and the call for more regulation, he says that “financial mentors are experiencing consumers at the coal face who are in financial difficulty”.

“They would see consumers who’ve gotten themselves into trouble with all sorts of different products that they might have taken up. That is something that informs their approach to these issues, but fundamentally when we’re thinking about what policy settings should be in place, we do need to look across all consumers and understand what the overall consumer experience is.”

The Consumer NZ/FinCap report has three recommendations for Buy Now Pay Later lending.

It wants affordability assessment requirements introduced; a rule that lenders can’t charge unreasonable late fees; and it wants other lending like phone handset deals and in-store payment schemes that have late fees included in credit law protections.

Report author Victoria Stace, a senior lecturer at Victoria University of Wellington whose research is in areas of consumer credit and financial protection, says because BNPL didn’t have an interest component, it was outside of credit rules until 2024, when it was brought within the CCCFA rules – although in a limited way.

“If it’s used well, and you pay off your instalments without defaulting, it can work out better [than credit cards] because it’s an interest-free arrangement,” she says.

However, financial mentors are saying that of the clients they’re seeing with money troubles, more people have BNPL debt as a proportion of their overall debt than before the 2024 regulatory fixes.

Stace also suspects that BNPL credit is being used to pay off other debt.

Check out how to listen to and follow The Detail here.

You can also stay up-to-date by liking us on Facebook or following us on Twitter.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/the-real-price-of-buy-now-pay-later/

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Shoes on or off inside? What are the rules?

Source: Radio New Zealand

Across Aotearoa, our indoor shoe etiquette is shaped by culture, faith, upbringing and our own ideas about cleanliness.

Guna Magesan, president of the Hindu Council, says that even if a host tells his whānau shoes are fine inside, they’ll usually remove them anyway. For him, it’s about respect, cultural values, discipline and cleanliness.

It’s a habit of daily life which he says most Hindus, especially those from rural or traditional backgrounds, have become accustomed to, he told RNZ in an email. Even while living abroad, it’s become a tradition passed down through generations, he says.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/shoes-on-or-off-inside-what-are-the-rules/

Posted on

HKPC Establishes New “Future Life & Health Tech Centre”

Source: Media Outreach

Driving R&D Translation and Sector Collaboration; Elevating Hong Kong as a Global Life & Health Innovation Hub

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) today officially launched its new “Future Life & Health Tech Centre”, unveiling a suite of R&D achievements and application technologies across life sciences, medical technology, future food, biotechnology and modernisation of Chinese medicine. With a clear focus on accelerating R&D, pilot-scale development, smart manufacturing and commercialisation, the Centre aims to serve as an industry accelerator for life and health technology in Hong Kong, supporting the commercialisation of research outcomes from lab to market and driving the development of new productive forces.

Mr Edmond LAI, Chief Digital Officer of HKPC, said, “Life and health technology is a fast-rising focus for Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development. The Government’s 2026–27 Budget also outlines several initiatives to accelerate I&T development, with a primary focus on life and health technology. HKPC is committed to supporting the Government’s strategic development in this field by delivering forward-looking innovative technologies and services. Through the ‘Future Life & Health Tech Centre’, we will leverage AI, smart manufacturing, pilot platforms and cross-border collaboration to speed up the commercialisation of research outcomes, fostering Hong Kong as an international life and health innovation hub.”

An integrated platform from R&D to market adoption

Positioned as an end-to-end enabler across the full value chain, the “Future Life & Health Tech Centre” provides systematic support from research and pilot production through to scaleup and market adoption. It includes platforms for active ingredient efficacy validation, microencapsulation and controlled release, AI health monitoring model development, dosage form optimisation for Chinese medicine, future food technologies, medical device pilot capabilities and smart microfactory demonstration. The Centre serves as a bridge between universities and research institutes, healthcare providers, local enterprises and Greater Bay Area resources, facilitating upstream, midstream and downstream collaboration for life and health technology.

Exhibition Highlights Showcasing Diverse Applications in Life and Health Technology

According to HKPC’s “Hong Kong Life and Health Industry Development Study”, the sector’s long-term success hinges on technology-driven innovation and efficient industrialisation. The Centre showcases the following innovations:

1. Medical Technology and Diagnostics

  • Veterinary recombinant plasmid DNA vaccine injection technology: Enhances plasmid DNA uptake to boost antibody production and immune response while improving safety; supports animal vaccine R&D.
  • Innovative Porous Silica Capsule Technology: Delivers precise, sustained release of drugs or antibacterial agents; tested to eliminate over 95% of harmful microorganisms. HKPC co‑developed a customised hybrid process and smart production equipment for APEL to establish a “Smart Micro‑factory”, translating research into industrial application.
  • Modernisation of Traditional Chinese Medicine: Combines modern dosage form development with zebrafish model validation. A TCM-based hydrogel patch is undergoing drug registration, with approval targeted for Q3 2026.
  • AI Scalp Health Diagnosis System: Built on HKPC’s open AI platform “HKPC Picasso,” it utilises high-resolution imaging and multimodal data to detect scalp conditions and instantly generate personalised health reports.

2. Future Food and Functional Nutrition

  • Bioprotective Coating Technology for Preservation on Fresh Produces: A food-grade coating that reduces moisture loss, oxygen exposure and microbial growth to extend shelf life and enhance supply chain efficiency.
  • Microencapsulation and Controlled Release Technology for Functional Food: Embeds active ingredients within a carrier system to protect sensitive substances, enhance bioavailability and enable precise release control.
  • AI-enabled Liquid Chilling Tunnel System: A two-stage chilling solution that reduces cooling time by over 60% and boosts efficiency by 90%. An AI vision system automatically identifies products and optimises chilling cycles, ensuring food safety, process stability and full data traceability. The technology has received multiple international honours, including the Gold Medal at the 2017 International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva.

HKPC emphasised that the “Future Life & Health Tech Centre” will act as a key platform for innovative research, pilot-scale development and industrial-scale commercialisation. Moving forward, HKPC will work closely with the Government, academia, healthcare organisations and industry partners in Hong Kong and other cities of the Greater Bay Area to strengthen the innovation ecosystem for life and health technology—supporting Hong Kong’s development as an international life and health innovation hub and advancing new industrialisation.

Photo Captions:

  1. Mr Edmond LAI, Chief Digital Officer of the Hong Kong Productivity Council, outlines the vision and strategy of the “Future Life & Health Tech Centre” and introduces a range of cutting-edge R&D outcomes in life and health technology.
  2. The “Future Life & Health Tech Centre” showcases medical technology and diagnostic innovations, including the “Veterinary recombinant plasmid DNA vaccine injection technology” and the “Modernisation of Traditional Chinese Medicine”.
  3. The “Future Life & Health Tech Centre” features future food technologies, including the “Bioprotective Coating Technology for Preservation on Fresh Produces” and “Microencapsulation and Controlled Release Technology for Functional Food”.

Hashtag: #HKPC

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/hkpc-establishes-new-future-life-health-tech-centre/

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Schools bringing in counsellors to deal with harm caused by social media

Source: Radio New Zealand

There are calls for a ban on social media for under 16’s in New Zealand. (File photo) NurPhoto via AFP

Principals of two Auckland schools say they’ve had to hire counsellors specifically for dealing with the harm caused to children by social media.

The principal of East Auckland’s Riverina Primary School, Bryce Mills told Checkpoint children as young as eight were being exposed to extreme online content.

He said his school hired a counsellor to help deal with the damage and he was not the only one.

Auckland’s Whangaparāoa College had hired the equivalent of five school counsellors last year to help teenagers harmed by social media, it said.

It’s prompted calls to push through a ban on social media for under-16s.

It comes days after Parliament’s Education and Workforce Committee released its final report on the inquiry into the harm social media causes for young people, offering recommendations including banning under-16 year olds from social media.

Saasha Jolley is a teacher at Riverina Primary School and she regularly heard students talk about scrolling Instagram, Tiktok and Snapchat as well as gaming online the night before.

Primary school children were using social media apps like Instagram and Tiktok, a teacher said. (File photo) RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

“Roblox in particular is a big one at the moment, in terms of the chatter that happens, the games they have access to.

“I know that it’s both a platform for kids and adults, they can both access it, they can create the games on there, so I guess that makes it a lot more open.”

What the students see and hear online at night arrived with them at school the next day, she said, and they didn’t always understand what they were repeating.

“They heard it from their friend or they heard it from this person online, so they thought that it was okay to say.”

Last year, research from Te Mana Whakaatu the Classification Office, found young people don’t generally go looking for objectionable content.

But it could be hard to avoid when it came up on social media, in group chats, or was shown around in person.

Some examples of this included pornography and real-world violence.

Riverina Primary School principal Bryce Mills said similar content was being seen by children as young as eight at his school.

“There is the odd occasion unfortunately where you do hear some of that sexual stuff coming through as well,” he said.

The school of 150 students was self-funding its own online security system, which costed them $3000 each year.

But Mills said the school couldn’t control what the students saw once they went home for the day.

“I had a parent the other day say to me, that they got up at one in the morning to go to the bathroom and they could see a glowing light from a bedroom.

A child using the Roblox app. (File photo) MARIJAN MURAT

“Their daughter had gone out and got the phone off the dining room table and was on their phone.

“If they hadn’t gone up to go to the bathroom, they wouldn’t have known that. It [happens] behind those closed doors.”

The situation was similar at Auckland’s Whangaparāoa College.

Principal Steve McCracken said he had to hire the equivalent of five school counsellors last year to help teenagers harmed by social media.

It was costing the school hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“I think that it is largely driven by social media and what they see is cool, the people that they see online with rich backgrounds and fast cars and all the bling.”

Last year, Australia became the first country to implement a social media ban for under 16’s, blocking access to sites like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.

Where to get help:

  • Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO. This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends
  • Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  • What’s Up: 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787. This is free counselling for 5 to 19-year-olds
  • Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 or text 832. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, and English.
  • Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116
  • Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
  • OUTLine: 0800 688 5463
  • Aoake te Rā bereaved by suicide service: or call 0800 000 053

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/schools-bringing-in-counsellors-to-deal-with-harm-caused-by-social-media/

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Legislation – Employment Leave Bill a long-overdue step towards clarity – EMA

Source: EMA

The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) says the Employment Leave Bill, which was introduced to Parliament today, marks a significant and long-overdue step towards fixing a Holidays Act that has frustrated employers and employees for more than a decade.
Alan McDonald, Head of Advocacy and Strategy at the EMA, says it is encouraging to see the reform progressing at pace after several previous attempts stalled.
“Successive governments have acknowledged the problems, but this is the first time in years we’ve seen meaningful progress,” he says. 
“It’s good to see the reforms maintaining momentum as this overhaul has been needed for a very long time.”
McDonald says the Bill’s shift to a standard-hours-based calculation is a major improvement, but one that will require employers and employees to work through the practical implications.
“It significantly simplifies the system for both employers and employees, which is what everyone has been asking for. But there’s still a bit for employers to get their heads around, particularly how standard hours apply to existing arrangements and how employment contracts may need to be updated.”
The two-year implementation window for the new legislation is sensible and gives employers and employees time to adjust to new systems, rewrite contracts, and work through transition issues.
“There are questions that need more clarity as implementation approaches,” McDonald says. 
“In particular, how existing leave balances will be treated, how built-up entitlements will roll over to the new system, and how the rules apply to people with variable or commission-based earnings. Those transition details matter, and employers and employees need certainty on how to manage those changes.”
McDonald says EMA members will welcome the pro-rata approach for sick leave entitlements for part-time workers.
“Ten days’ sick leave for all workers, regardless of whether they work one shift or five, was introduced as a Covid-era measure that we didn’t support at the time. Moving to a pro-rated system for part-time workers is fairer and better reflects the reality of modern work.”
McDonald says the Leave Compensation Payment (LCP) is an important offset to the change for part-time and casual workers, but it’s another new concept employers need to manage.
With the Bill now before Parliament and submissions opening shortly, the EMA is encouraging members to back the reforms.
“Now that we have a workable solution on the table, we want to see the base settings stay in place long enough for the new system to bed in,” McDonald says. 
“The old rules were universally seen as unworkable, but no one wants to finally fix it only to have it quickly changed again.”
He says the submission process is the right time for employers to raise technical issues or propose refinements.
“This is the moment to make improvements. The next few weeks will be important, and we’ll be urging our members to submit in support of the Bill.”
Once the Employment Leave Bill has passed its first reading, submissions can be made to Parliament’s Education and Workforce Select Committee.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/legislation-employment-leave-bill-a-long-overdue-step-towards-clarity-ema/

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Asia Coach Group Partners with Award-Winning Trainer Ling Sia to Launch “Micro-Capital Growth PLUS” Programme, Advancing Practical Financial Education

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – Asia Coach Group Limited announced the launch of “Micro-Capital Growth PLUS,” a new financial literacy programme developed in collaboration with Ling Sia, one of the company’s lead trainers recently named among Hong Kong’s Top 10 Business Trainers. The programme is built on three core principles — low starting capital, repeatable processes, and disciplined wealth-building — and is designed to deliver an accessible financial education framework that balances risk management with practical application.

Financial Vulnerability Among Hong Kong’s Workforce Has Become a Structural Issue

Hong Kong’s median monthly employment earnings stand at approximately HKD 20,500, with over 200,000 workers classified as working poor. Concurrently, more than 43,000 fraud cases were recorded in 2025, with online investment scams averaging approximately HKD 700,000 in losses per case. The combination of a narrow income base and high-impact fraud exposure means a single financial misstep can have irreversible consequences for the city’s lower- and middle-income earners. In this environment, financial education must prioritise capital preservation and risk awareness over the pursuit of returns.

An Award-Winning Trainer Bringing Real-World Experience to Financial Education

Ling Sia was selected as one of Hong Kong’s Top 10 Business Trainers in the “World’s Most Popular Business Trainer” awards organised by the Hong Kong Economic Times, a recognition of her professional credentials and proven teaching outcomes. With over eight years of training experience and a decade-long background in wealth management, she has conducted more than 90 financial literacy events and guided over a thousand participants in building passive income streams. Having personally experienced investment losses, Ling Sia brings a grounded understanding of the risks and pressures facing individuals with limited capital. Her teaching philosophy centres on translating asset allocation principles into actionable, step-by-step strategies that enable participants to start small and build passive income through a structured process.

A Systematic Framework for Building Passive Income

“Micro-Capital Growth PLUS” is a comprehensive upgrade of the original programme, offering participants a repeatable, systematic financial planning process. The curriculum is structured around four core modules: real-world investment case studies supported by verified return data; financial mindset training to help participants develop rational money management habits and risk awareness; a cash flow strategy that deconstructs the steps to building passive income, targeting an initial four-figure monthly return within three months; and a holistic planning component addressing personal development and lifestyle balance.

The programme adopts a one-on-one personalised coaching model, with Ling Sia guiding each participant through the process of establishing their own passive income cash flow. Unlike conventional finance courses with high tuition fees, advisory services with ongoing management charges, or overseas investment schemes requiring substantial capital commitments, “Micro-Capital Growth PLUS” offers a lower barrier to entry with a clearly defined, actionable path to asset growth.

Aligned with a Shifting Market — Practical Expertise Becomes the New Standard in Training

Hong Kong’s professional training market is undergoing a notable shift. Results from the Hong Kong Economic Times’ “World’s Most Popular Business Trainer” awards indicate that industry demand has moved from traditional theory-based instruction toward digital, practice-oriented application, with trainers who combine entrepreneurial experience and financial teaching expertise attracting the strongest market interest. Ling Sia’s “executable, process-driven, guided” teaching methodology is well-positioned within this evolving landscape. Backed by the professional recognition as one of Hong Kong’s Top 10 Business Trainers, the programme offers a risk-conscious, accessible pathway to financial literacy for everyday investors.

Hashtag: #Finance #Investment #Coaching #LingSia #Micro-CapitalGrowthPLUS

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/asia-coach-group-partners-with-award-winning-trainer-ling-sia-to-launch-micro-capital-growth-plus-programme-advancing-practical-financial-education/

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Navy faces potential fine after Akaroa Harbour oil spill

Source: Radio New Zealand

Oil spill from HMNZS Te Kaha is contained on Akaroa Harbour. Facebook/Environment Canterbury

Canterbury Regional Council is yet to decide if there will be any penalties for the Royal New Zealand Navy after a ship spilled hundreds of litres of oil in Akaroa Harbour.

About 200 to 300 litres of lubricating oil leaked from HMNZS Te Kaha on Sunday morning because of an oil cooler defect on the ship’s starboard engine.

The Defence Force (NZDF) said the ship was in Akaroa for a training exercise.

The council’s coast and harbours manager Guy Harris said crews had cleaned up most of the oil using absorbent booms. It was not a large spill, but the oil was quite toxic and “thick” for wildlife, although that made it easier for teams to pick up, he said.

“We’ve been on the water since first light doing observations. We still haven’t seen any more black oil but we are still seeing odd sheen, which is very thin layers of oil, and we’re chasing those down.

“We’re also doing shoreline observations looking for oil on the beach, on the rocks.

“This type of oil could be quite significant if it wasn’t captured, if it was in a more remote place or the weather wasn’t so forgiving or we couldn’t get to it, it could be quite damaging. But in this instance we did everything right, and we had a few things on our side as well.”

Harris said any enforcement action against the Navy was yet to be determined by the regional council.

Polluting ships could result in prosecutions or fines of thousands of dollars under the Resource Management Act.

Harris said there had been no reports of any oiled or sick wildlife so far, but teams were continuing to search the area. The oil spill did not happen in Akaroa’s marine reserve.

“We’ve been looking out for seabirds such as shags or blue penguins, there’s a few other birds that come and go but they’re the main ones we’d be looking for, and maybe red-billed gulls,” he said.

The HMNZS Te Kaha (file photo). SUPPLIED / US NAVY

Otago University professor of zoology Liz Slooten said she had serious concerns for dolphins and seabirds in the harbour.

She said seabirds could have their feathers covered in oil, causing them to lose their insulation, sink, drown or be unable to catch fish. Risks for marine mammals included breathing in polluted fumes, getting oil in their eyes, or eating contaminated fish, she said.

“There’s a whole bunch of health effects that will follow on from these animals taking in oil, or diesel or other petrochemicals, so it’s a really serious problem.”

She said bottlenose dolphins had been seen to lose teeth after swimming in contaminated waters in the Gulf of Mexico after the Deepwater Horizon disaster, when 4.9 million barrels of oil spilled into the sea.

Slooten said it was concerning the Navy leak was the second spill in the harbour in the past two months, with more than 2000 litres of marine diesel fuel spilling from the Black Cat Cruises boat on 31 January.

Banks Peninsula councillor Tyrone Fields said Akaroa had had a “horror run” and news of another spill was disheartening.

“The health of the harbour there is really on the precipice, and I’d hate to think we’d consider doing future damage to it by continuing to pump wastewater into it. At some point we just have to start doing the right thing when it comes to our waterways.”

NZDF said the ship’s company had been working with the harbourmaster to clean up the slick.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/navy-faces-potential-fine-after-akaroa-harbour-oil-spill/

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From PolyU Research to Geneva Global Debut: GOOD Vision oka³y! ™ Redefines Precision in Freeform Orthokeratology

Source: Media Outreach

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – GOOD Vision Technologies Co., Limited, a pioneer in ophthalmic optics and diagnostics, today announced the global debut of oka³y! , a first-of-its-kind “3A” Freeform Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) solution. Unveiled at the 51st International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva, the technology solves the industry’s most persistent hurdles by leveraging proprietary AI and freeform optics: AI-guided fitting, Astigmatic precision, and Asymmetric cornea alignment.

Beyond Traditional Toric Lenses: The Future of Freeform Orthokeratology

With myopia expected to affect 50% of the world’s population by 2050, demand for effective management is high. While Ortho-K is a highly effective strategy, traditional symmetric and spherical/ toric designs often underestimate corneal shape complexity, causing lens decentration and poor visual outcomes.

The oka³y! freeform technology, incorporating the company’s proprietary FAST-360 and CORe Technology, surpasses traditional lens design. AI-based FAST-360 reconstructs missing corneal data for faster scans, while CORe ensures precise alignment with the visual axis, leading to 3.1 times greater stability.

Precision Myopia Correction and Control for High Astigmatism and Asymmetric Corneas

For optometrists and clinic owners, oka³y! ’s key benefit is improving workflow by automating complex mathematics, cutting chair time by 64%. This boosts myopia management capacity without extra staff or lengthy training. “As a registered optometrist in Hong Kong and a researcher in one of the world’s leading optometric institutes, I witnessed a growing gap between the number of patients seeking Ortho-K and the limited range of conventional products available to treat them,” says Dr. Kin Ho Chan, Ken, the lead inventor of oka³y! . “By focusing on the ‘3A’: AI-guided, Astigmatism, and Asymmetry, and working alongside The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Poly U), we have developed a design that not only delivers superior vision but also enhances safety by reducing corneal staining. We are turning a frustrating, manual trial-and-error process into a predictable one-click adjustment.”

From Niche Specialty to Global Enterprise: Scaling the Future of Eye Care

As myopia rates reach epidemic levels, GOOD Vision partners with PolyU, harnessing its research strengths and support from its startup ecosystem PolyVentures, to redefine primary eye care by transforming a niche specialty into a scalable global enterprise. By replacing manual OK lens design with oka³y! , the company has created a technology bridging clinical complexity and scalability. This transition enables practitioners to manage myopia, high astigmatism, and asymmetrical cases precisely, removing barriers to modern refractive error management.

“By embedding and automating the complex mathematics of lens design, we provide clinicians with the tools to treat ‘difficult’ patients who were previously considered unsuitable for Ortho-K,” added Professor Chea-su Kee, Founder of GOOD Vision. “This is about elevating the global standard of care and ensuring that precision myopia management is accessible to the next generation on a global scale.”

Experience the Future of Myopia Control

GOOD Vision invites investors, distributors, and practitioners to a live demonstration of the oka³y! at the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva:

  • Location: PolyU Delegation Booth, Hall 2, Palexpo, CP 112, Route François-Peyrot 30, 1218 Le Grand-Saconnex, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Dates: 11–15 March 2026

Hashtag: #GOODVision

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/from-polyu-research-to-geneva-global-debut-good-vision-oka%C2%B3y-redefines-precision-in-freeform-orthokeratology/