Indigenous to indigenous education: Shaping global futures together at WIPCE

The conference, hosted by Auckland University of Technology, brought together participants from around the world for rich discussions on how Indigenous knowledge systems and leadership continue to shape global futures. Keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions showcased the transformative potential of indigenous-led education. 

A major focus of the gathering was to create pathways for mobility and partnership that uplift Indigenous students worldwide.  

Attendees explored strategies for student exchanges, co-designed programmes, Indigenous-led research and teaching partnerships, and long-term relationship building across institutions.  

These conversations laid the foundation for future initiatives that will enable Māori and Indigenous learners to connect across borders, deepen cultural understanding, and access education that reflects their identities and aspirations. 

Beyond the formal programme, WIPCE created space for whakawhanaungatanga through shared kai (food), cultural exchange, and informal connection—reinforcing the relational foundations of Indigenous leadership: trust, reciprocity, and shared purpose.  

ENZ Māori Advisor Āriana Ngarimu-Goldsmith represented ENZ in discussions and sessions at WIPCE and said the experience highlighted the strength of collective action.  

“There is great power in coming together and uplifting one another, as we work towards a future where indigenous education is centred, valued, and celebrated.” 

Pre-WIPCE hui in Tāmaki Makaurau 

In partnership with APAIE (Asia-Pacific Association for International Education), ENZ Manapou ki te Ao hosted a pre-WIPCE gathering on 14 November in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. The hui brought together indigenous connectors from across Aotearoa, Australia, Canada and USA to share, wānanga, and prepare collectively for WIPCE 2025. 

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei opened the hui with mana and aroha, setting the tone for a day of genuine connection, respect, and belonging. 

Attendees shared collective aspirations and challenges within the education systems, reinforcing a collective commitment to tackle structural inequities, elevate culture and identity as foundations for learner success, and strengthen indigenous-to-indigenous connections globally.  

Ed Tuari (Manukura – Chief Advisor Māori) facilitated discussions exploring what is front-of-mind for participants as they moved toward WIPCE 2025.

The wānanga format intentionally moved away from “stand and deliver” presentations, instead fostering an open space for reflection, dialogue, and shared learning. 

ENZ Manukura Chief Advisor Māori, Ed Tuari, said the events affirmed the power of indigenous knowledge to not only educate, but to transform.  

“These engagements remind us that shaping global futures requires indigenous leadership, cultural integrity, and enduring relationships,” he added.  

Ko ngā tini aho o te tukutuku whakaniko i te hinengaro 
Me tuitui ki te tūmatakahuki o te hononga taketake o te ao 

By Rāhera Shortland, 

The many strands of knowledge that embellish the mind 
Are woven upon a lattice of Indigenous connectivity across the world.