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Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Knowledge Hub Microcredential Recognition Ceremony Celebrates Achievements of Semester 1, 2024 Cohort
Updates / Events, 21 Jul 24
The Pasifika Medical Association (PMA) Knowledge Hub Microcredential Recognition Ceremony, held on July 17th, celebrated the accomplishments of the Semester 1, 2024 cohort who successfully completed the 'Improving Wellbeing Outcomes for Pacific Families' course developed in partnership with the University of Auckland.

Hosted in Auckland, at Fale Maama, the event marked a significant milestone for the 38 graduates and their families. Distinguished speakers, including Sir Collin Tukuitonga, PMA Group Board Director and Co-Director for Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa (Centre for Pacific and Global Health), Associate Professor Matire Harwood, Deputy Dean for Faculty of Medical Health Sciences, and Soana Pamaka, Pasifika Futures Limited Board Member and Principal of Tamaki College, provided valuable insights into the course's impact on Pacific health and education. 

Special mention goes to the team behind the scenes who coordinated the programme to run as smoothly as it did - Senior Research Fellow for the PMA Knowledge Hub and Course Co-ordinator for the microcredential, Seutaʻafili Dr Patrick Thomsen, Sam Pilisi, Yvonne Sinclair, and Teina Ringi. Students also had the opportunity to learn from honorary lecturers Taulapapa Wilmason Jensen and PMA CEO, Debbie Sorensen. Their efforts ensured the success of the semester, reflected in every student passing the course. 

The ceremony was not merely a celebration of academic achievement but also a testament to familial pride and community support. Families gathered to commend the graduates' commitment to improving health outcomes for Pacific families and their dedication to academic excellence and community service. 

The evening concluded with heartfelt remarks from the graduates themselves, expressing gratitude for the opportunities afforded by the course and its profound impact on their understanding of challenges within Pacific communities. They shared personal academic milestones, describing the course as a pinnacle of their educational journey. 

The PMA Knowledge Hub Microcredential Recognition Ceremony not only honoured academic success but also underscored the importance of culturally responsive practices in enhancing wellbeing across diverse communities.