Celebrating the first graduates of the Kia Atamai te Whawhai scholarship programme

Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University and the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) recently came together to celebrate a significant milestone - the graduation of the first cohort of students under the Kia Atamai te Whawhai (KATW) Scholarship programme.

This event marked the formal acknowledgement of a unique partnership between academia and the NZDF, designed to equip future New Zealand Army leaders with both academic knowledge and military acumen.

The event was attended by Vice-Chancellor Professor Jan Thomas, members of the university’s Senior Leadership Team, senior NZDF personnel and one of the four graduating students, who was accompanied by her partner and whānau.

Professor Thomas gave a speech in which she acknowledged the ongoing and valued relationship between Massey and the NZDF, a partnership that formally began in 2020 and has recently been renewed through to 2027.

“At Massey, we pride ourselves on delivering flexible, accessible pathways to education. Through this partnership, we’re proud to continue recognising and supporting the remarkable skills, discipline and experience that NZDF members bring to their studies, building on the world-class training they already receive through the Defence Force.”

She also spoke about the importance of tertiary education and how when the first member of a family achieves a degree, often it creates an environment where other members then go on to further education.

Following on from the Vice-Chancellor, Commandant of the Army Command School Lieutenant Colonel Ian Hill addressed the room before introducing Major Graeme Dill-Russell, who spoke about the programme.

Major Dill-Russell echoed Professor Thomas' comments about the wider benefits of tertiary study.

He also noted that one of the key purposes of the programme is to develop and promote diversity of thought within the officer corps, fostering leaders who value meaningful engagement, respect differing views, and ultimately benefit from perspectives that differ from their own.

Major Dill-Russell congratulated the first cohort of graduates, expressing his belief that their experiences at Massey will assist them and those that follow to make better decisions and be better leaders.

The first cohort of KATW scholars began their studies at Massey's Manawatū campus in 2021. Three of these students have now graduated, joined by a fourth from the 2022 intake.

Also attending the celebration was Lieutenant Courtney Maynard, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in politics and international relations and attended the event with her partner and parents.

She says studying a BA at Massey has been an invaluable foundation for her career as an Army Officer.

“My degree provides me with a deeper understanding of the dynamics of global affairs, leadership and decision-making in complex environments - all of which closely align to military service. This scholarship allowed me to focus on my studies with stability and motivation and helped me grow both academically and personally, preparing me well for my future endeavours. Studying at Massey University through the NZDF reinforced my commitment to serve and lead with integrity, knowledge and an all-encompassing perspective on the challenges that face people across the world and here at home.”

The other three graduates, who were unable to attend the event, are listed below:

• Lieutenant Baileigh Howatson – Bachelor of Business Studies in International Business
• Lieutenant Rafael K – Bachelor of Business Studies in Management
• Lieutenant Seth Brown – Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Six current KATW scholars who are continuing their studies at Massey are:

• Second Lieutenant Daniel Schwarz
• Second Lieutenant Cameron Hudson
• Second Lieutenant Jairel Alfante
• Second Lieutenant Renee Maddigan
• Second Lieutenant Jordy Hazlewood
• Second Lieutenant Otis Burt

About the Kia Atamai te Whawhai scholarship

Kia Atamai te Whawhai, meaning "Fight Smart," reflects the New Zealand Army's vision of developing agile, informed leaders who are capable in both thought and action. This scholarship is awarded to promising Officer Cadets who have completed the New Zealand Commissioning Course and meet the academic entry requirements for university study.

The scholarship offers recipients the opportunity to study for a three-year bachelor’s degree in fields such as business, arts, science, communication, information science, sport and exercise and agriculture.

Key benefits include earning approximately $76,000 during study, graduating with a debt-free degree, living on base or in private accommodation nearby, a guaranteed leadership role in the Army post-study and support through a close-knit cohort developed during officer training.

In return for the financial and educational support, recipients commit to one year of service for each year of sponsored study. Applications are open to students from Year 13 onward, with the scholarship awarded during the later stages of the Officer Commissioning Course, following success in the selection process.