19 Dec 2023

Review of Maori and Pacific Admissions Scheme criticised

From , 6:01 am on 19 December 2023
Generative AI : Doctor holding stethoscope and touching on screen of digital tablet computer close up EHRs Electronic Health Record system EMRs Electronic Medical Record system e h

Photo: 123RF

A review of the Māori and Pacific Admissions Scheme is being called a waste of time according to the acting Dean of the University of Auckland's faculty of Medical and Health Sciences.

The scheme, also known as MAPAS, was established in 1972 to train more Māori and Pasifka doctors, who are historically underrepresented in the workforce.

Now, as part of ACT's vow to end "race-based policies", MAPAS and its Otago equivalent are set to undergo review, raising concerns among medical professionals that they may be scrapped.

RNZ Pacific's Eleisha Foon spoke with Sir Collin Tukuitonga about the educational pathway.