Applications are now open for the Manurewa Local Board’s new scholarship for seniors.
A first for the local board, the scholarships are for seniors, kuia and kaumatua over 65 years of age keen to continue learning and to use that new found knowledge to benefit the Manurewa community.
Learning a 'lifelong activity'
The idea for the scholarship came from the local Age Concern Counties Manukau, which recognise that learning is a lifelong activity.
“Learning doesn’t stop just because you’re older and it isn’t limited to academic study. We’re offering Manurewa seniors the opportunity to gain new knowledge that can be shared in our community,” says Wendy Bremner of Age Concern Counties Manukau, which is partnering with the local board on the initiative.
Encouraging diverse learning
The emphasis is on learning rather than academic study, but the criteria have been deliberately kept wide to encourage diverse learning.
“Seniors might want to attend a course or a conference, learn how to fix cars, paint, teach Zumba to older people, learn public speaking, share a hobby, start an oral history, or learn a new language to increase neighbourhood communication. With these scholarships, anything is possible,” says Wendy.
Manurewa Local Board chair Angela Dalton says the local board is excited to be offering the scholarship.
“We want everyone in our community to feel valued and encouraged and also grow opportunities for our seniors to contribute and these scholarships are just one way we can do that.”
She says the scholarships are about valuing life and experiences, and seeing older people as visible and vital, and as important as every other age-group.
“The lessons they have learnt in life and will continue to learn and can pass on to others will be a huge benefit to the Manurewa community.”
Applications close 21 July.
About the Manurewa Local Board Seniors’ scholarships
A pool of $10,000 is available with individuals able to apply for a maximum of $2000.
Learning activities expected to take place in the next 12 months.
How to apply
- Fill out this application form or email Lucy Prior at Age Concern on lucyp@accm.org.nz for a copy.
- You can also pick one up from Manurewa Library and the Manurewa Local Board office located at 7 Hill Road.
