A new forestry scholarship has been launched by Forestry Minister Shane Jones and Associate Forestry Minister Meka Whaitiri.

The new scholarship, launched last month at Fieldays, aims to grow the capability of the forestry sector and increase the number of women and Maori in the industry.

Shane says the new scholarship – named Nga Karapihi Uru Rakau – provides $8000 a year to Maori and female students enrolling in either a Bachelor of Forestry Science or Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) in Forest Engineering at the University of Canterbury.

“It also provides a paid internship with Te Uru Rakau – Forestry New Zealand – and other forestry employers.

The scholarships will be available to school-leavers and people working in the industry who want to upskill and undertake tertiary study.

“Four scholarships will be awarded for the 2019 academic year, and this will increase to a total of 18 over the next three years.”

Shane says the One Billion Trees programme is a key focus for the Government “and we want to ensure that our young men and women see forestry as a sustainable and exciting career”.

“We need to ensure we have the right skills today and in the future to increase sustainability, productivity and value in the primary industries, and address environmental challenges.

Meka says the forestry sector provided opportunities for rewarding and lifelong careers.

“The forestry industry is exciting and evolving – and it will need people who can work with robotics, and help develop products and processes to take advantage of engineered timber, new bio-material and bio-energy.

Meka says currently the sector employs few women and Maori are also under-represented in the professional areas of the industry.

“I’m delighted to be announcing this scholarship programme as it will help us build a highly skilled, safe and higher paid forestry workforce.

“Not only will the successful students be gaining the skills we need, but through the programme’s internships they will also gain valuable industry relationships, along with practical job experience.”

Scholarship applications open this September and close in December, with successful applicants announced early next year.

For more information, see: www.mpi.govt.nz/about-us/our-work/scholarships-and-awards/nga-karahipi-uru-rakau-forestry-scholarships/