Welsh a worldwide model for language revitalisation say University of Waikato as they launch Cardiff partnership

The University of Waikato in New Zealand has launched a strategic partnership with Cardiff University, saying that they consider Welsh a model for language revitalisation.

Around 149,000 people speak the Māori language in New Zealand, with 50,000 saying they speak it well, compared to 562,000 Welsh speakers according to the 2011 census.  The University of Waikato features a Faculty of Maori and Indigenous Studies.

"The partnership is expected to deliver enhanced opportunities for students, as well as opportunities in language and culture including language revitalisation, with the Welsh language considered a model for language revitalisation worldwide," the University of Waikato said.

The strategic partnership was formally recognised at an online event today, with speakers including First Minister Mark Drakeford and Laura Clarke, High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to New Zealand.

University of Waikato Vice-Chancellor, Professor Neil Quigley, said that he hoped the relationship would bring world class expertise from Cardiff into Waikato and New Zealand.

“Our partnership has already shown what can be achieved through international collaboration between committed academics in a short space of time and during a global pandemic,” says Professor Quigley.

“There are many synergies between Waikato and Cardiff and this partnership is already enriching staff experience and research performance.”

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'Cultural ties'

Other topics of co-operation between the universities will include a better understanding of genomics of microbes, AI and edge computing, climate change, engineering, management, nursing, psychology, law and politics.

“This partnership builds upon and strengthens our commitment to put outward mobility and student exchange at the heart of our offering to students, while ensuring the benefits are seen and felt here in Wales,” says Cardiff University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Colin Riordan.

“As we move out of the pandemic, it is vital that we continue to provide opportunities for students and staff to collaborate with colleagues around the world.

"There are many cultural and geographical ties between Wales and New Zealand, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the partnership leads to wider research, education, and civic benefits for both countries.”