Rate My Professor Karamea Pewhairangi

Karamea Pēwhairangi is the Manager, Indigenous Internationalisation – Te Ringa Whatu Kupenga, in the International Office at the University of Otago. With whakapapa to Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāpuhi, and Kāi Tahu, she leads the development and implementation of a comprehensive programme of indigenous internationalisation activities across the University. This work involves establishing new indigenous partnerships, strengthening existing ones, and creating international opportunities for students and staff. Her efforts align with the University’s Māori Strategic Framework, Pacific Strategic Framework, Pae Tata, and Internationalisation Framework, integrating indigenous knowledge and perspectives into the institution's global strategies. She also holds the position of Kaiwhakahaere Kaupapa in the Office of the Vice-Chancellor.

Pēwhairangi served as Project Manager for the historic Indigenous-led Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Otago and Murdoch University in November 2024, emphasizing direct engagement and mutual respect in Indigenous exchange programmes. She noted, “Involvement from staff across campus, in particular Māori staff, is essential. Each team brings valuable expertise and perspective to discussions on enhancing Indigenous student experiences, sharing best practices, and aligning our strategic goals. By working together, we can ensure our commitment to Indigenous education is reflected not only in student experiences but also across academic, operational, and cultural initiatives.” Previously, she was Tumuaki of Te Rōpū Māori, the Māori students' association, in 2020 and 2021, representing members on committees, speaking at events, and providing policy feedback during the COVID-19 pandemic. She contributed to organising Matariki celebrations and night markets in 2022 and participates in international events such as the Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Festival and NAFSA conferences, sharing insights on indigenous mobility programmes.