Reflections on the Tūwhitia Symposium: Supporting Learner Success in the Age of AI

Recently, I had the privilege of attending and speaking at the Tūwhitia Symposium hosted by Unitec and the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) in Auckland. This event brought together over 120 leaders in tertiary education, all united by a shared commitment to addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time: how artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape of learning and teaching.

The symposium focused on how educational institutions can empower not just learners, but also educators in the age of AI. From tools that assist with academic support to preserving Indigenous languages through AI technology, the breadth of topics covered was inspiring. On day 2, I presented a session on how a learning-centric approach to AI can support student success and systematically strengthen institutes that are trying to keep up with a rapidly-evolving, post-Covid educational landscape.

One of the highlights of the event was the collaborative atmosphere. Attendees shared innovative strategies, case studies, and their thoughts on how to integrate AI while maintaining a human-centered approach to education. There was a large focus on the use of a data-driven approach when it comes to student support. Particularly in regards to how everyone is using data to ensure they use the right support to reach the right student. As is the case with most conferences, the key notes were particularly insightful and inspiring - Prof Adam Bridgeman, Prof Jessica Vanderlelie and Peter-Lucas Jones delivered thought-provoking and motivating words. It was great to see educators, technologists, and policymakers working together to ensure that these advancements not only improve efficiency, but also uphold inclusivity and accessibility for all students.

Another highlight of the conference was hearing from student leaders during a panel session giving voice to the student experience. In a relaxed cosy corner, they spoke about their challenges and their journeys in leadership. One student in particular, the National Secretary/President of the New Zealand International Students Association (NZISA), Pauliasi Bauleka, spoke about how Studiosity had been fantastic for those students with English as a second language, in their endeavour to be successful with academic writing.

My colleague David was fortunate enough to have an in-depth conversation with Pauliasi afterwards, where he said he was so grateful for Studiosity - Pau explained that he uses it all the time and encourages other students to do so as well. He felt that the support he received from Studiosity definitely contributed to his success at AUT. These kinds of stories are what make working at Studiosity so rewarding, and even more so when we get to hear them directly from the source.

For me, this symposium reaffirmed the importance of partnerships and shared values in driving meaningful change. Studiosity’s mission to increase life chances aligns closely with the themes discussed—empowering students to succeed in their academic journeys with the right support at the right time. Seeing our work resonate with others in the sector was incredibly rewarding.

I extend my deepest thanks to Unitec and the TEC for organising such a transformative event and for allowing me to be part of this critical dialogue. The future of education is undoubtedly intertwined with the advancements of AI, and events like these remind us of the importance of leading with intention, collaboration, and compassion.

With thanks to Unitec for the photos used in this post. You can read more about the Tūwhitia Symposium - Ākonga Success here.