Otago students can now use Maori language in exams

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The Maori language can now be used by Otago University students in exams and assessments, as part of a new Maori language policy adopted by the university this year.

Professor John Moorfield of Otago University's school of Maori, Pacific and indigenous studies said today the policy would encourage the use of spoken and written Maori.

He believed it was the first comprehensive policy to be adopted by a New Zealand tertiary institution.

"Te reo Maori is a minority language, and if the culture is to survive and flourish, then the language must be encouraged and maintained," he said.

New procedures include the translation of all key documents into Maori and the option for students to have their degree certificates presented in Maori or English. The policy also supports the use of bilingual signage.

Procedures for marking assessments and examinations of students who choose to write in te reo Maori will be trialed, Prof Moorfield said.

"Ideally a staff person who is a Maori speaker and who knows the subject area will mark it. In other cases an outside marker may be brought in or the work will be translated for marking."

The university will also provide a full fees subsidy to all academic and general staff who take up Maori language papers, and will explore ways of creating retention incentives for staff who are able to speak the language.

- NZPA