In a remarkable series of events that brought together scientific minds and local communities, the Moko Foundation hosted the Science Symposium in Kaitaia and a reciprocal visit to Ōtakou Whakaihu Waka (the University of Otago). These initiatives aimed to foster a dynamic exchange of knowledge, bridging the gap between experts and the hapori (community).
Moko Foundation Science Symposium, Kaitaia
The Te Ahu Events Centre in Kaitaia in June 2024 hosted the Moko Foundation Science Symposium, a landmark event designed to foster a dynamic exchange of scientific knowledge between experts and the local community. This one-day symposium included ten members of the Centre for Neuroendocrinology (CNE) and was marked by a warm powhiri at Waimanoni Marae, where the attendees stayed for two nights.
The symposium aimed to create a collaborative environment where scientific knowledge could flow both ways. Experts from across the country shared their insights with the hapori, while the hapori offered their unique perspectives and knowledge in return.
CNE staff in Kaitaia 2024
Keynote and Presentations
Dr Megan Leask, a key speaker at the event, delivered a compelling talk on infectious diseases. The symposium also featured poster presentations by CNE members on various topics, including:
- Neuroendocrinology research at Ōtakou Whakaihu Waka
- Neuroendocrinology in maternal adaptation
- Neuroendocrinology in fertility
- Neuroendocrinology and pest control in Aotearoa
These presentations provided valuable insights into the latest research and developments in neuroendocrinology, engaging local communities and students from intermediate and high schools across Northland.
Community Engagement
The event was well-attended by local residents and students, who had the opportunity to interact with leading scientists and learn about cutting-edge research.
The travel for this symposium was generously supported by Ōtakou Whakaihu Waka and the Maurice Wilkin Centre.
Reciprocal Visit: Inspiring the Next Generation, Dunedin
Moko Foundation students visiting CNE at Otago 2024
In a reciprocal gesture, in August 2024 the Moko Foundation organized a visit for seven rangatahi (youth) from Kaitaia College, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Rangi Āniwaniwa, and Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Kao to Ōtakou Whakaihu Waka in Dunedin. This visit aimed to inspire and educate the young participants about university life and the field of health and biomedical sciences. During their visit to our centre, students had opportunities for laboratory hands-on experience and close interactions/communications with members of the CNE.
Highlights of the CNE Visit
- A presentation by Professor Rebecca Campbell, the director of the Centre for Neuroendocrinology.
- A panel discussion with post-graduate students sharing their experiences.
- Dissection of mouse brains to study prolactin, a maternal hormone, and its role in human maternal instincts.
- Tours of the WD Trotter Human Anatomy Museum and a Zebrafish facility with Dr Megan Leask.
The visit concluded with a group dinner and an ice-skating session, providing a fun and memorable end to the trip.
These events underscore the Moko Foundation’s and Centre for Neuroendocrinology’s commitment to bridging the gap between scientific communities and local hapori, fostering mutual learning and respect. The symposium and reciprocal visit not only highlighted the importance of scientific knowledge but also celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the participants.