Mātauranga Māori and Artificial Intelligence central to education hui at Zealandia

Education leaders gathered at Zealandia in Wellington on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, to discuss the intersection of emerging technology and traditional knowledge. The hui provided a platform for experts to look beyond current classroom pressures and envision the future of learning for the next generation of learners in Aotearoa. Speaking with Radio Waatea’s Matthew Tukaki, Dr Kathie Irwin highlighted the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and its potential to reshape the educational landscape. The discussion focused on how new digital tools might change teaching methodologies and the specific skill sets that rangatahi will require to navigate an increasingly digital world. A central theme of the kōrero was the essential role of mātauranga Māori in this technological evolution. Dr Irwin and Mr Tukaki explored how Aotearoa can remain at the forefront of innovation while ensuring that Māori culture, identity, and aspirations are not sidelined. The dialogue emphasized that as AI becomes more prevalent, it is vital to keep community and Indigenous knowledge systems at the heart of the curriculum. According to the report by Waatea News, the gathering served as an opportunity to consider how the education system can evolve to be more inclusive and forward-looking. By balancing innovation with a firm grounding in Māori heritage, the leaders aimed to identify opportunities that will empower Māori students to thrive in a high-tech future without losing their connection to their heritage.