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Day One Keynote Speakers:
Approaches that are making a difference

for literacy and numeracy

“Welcome on behalf of hosts; and
opening comments”

Nuddy Pillay
Executive General Manager Academic (Acting), Manukau Institute of
Technology
Nuddy Pillay is an innovator in learning and teaching with a passion for effective
communication using digital media in the workplace and education. He is an award winner
in using technologies in higher education to prepare students for media rich workplaces. His
research interests include blended learning environments and sharing strategies for Māori
and Pasifika success.

“What is making a difference to Māori
and Pasifika literacy and numeracy

outcomes?”

Associate-Professor Toeolesulusulu Damon Salesa, University of
Auckland
Toeolesulusulu Damon Salesa is a prize-winning scholar who specialises in the study of
colonialism, empire, government and race. With a particular interest in the Pacific Islands,
he also works in education, economics and development in the Pacific region, as well as in
New Zealand and Australia. After studying at the University of Auckland, he is back there
as Head of Pacific Studies, and Co-Head of Te Wānanga o Waipapa. Previously he was
Associate Professor of History, American Culture, and Asian/Pacific Islander American
Studies at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.

“How financial well-being provides

further access to education”

Pale Sauni
He Taunga Waka Pasifika Facilitator/Pasifika Education Consultant
Pale is a Pasifika Education Consultant who has 25 years’ experience as a trained social
worker working in the health and education sector. His main focus is on engaging Pasifika
and Māori learners and he strongly believes that financial well-being is vitally important to
achieving academic success.

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