30 January 2019 at 9:00 am
German students discuss sustainability with the Speaker
New Zealand House of Representatives Speaker Rt Hon Trevor Mallard used his visit to Germany earlier this month to talk sustainability and environmental research in New Zealand at the Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU), Munich.
Mallard, a former Minister of Education (1999-2005), was eager to engage with students during his trip to Germany in January.
Olga Elli, ENZ’s Market Development Manager Europe, said LMU’s strong focus on sustainability research and interest in New Zealand presented a great opportunity for Mallard to discuss areas of mutual interest, and encourage young Germans to look to New Zealand to study.
“LMU is very keen to build on their existing links in New Zealand and formally partner with New Zealand universities,” said Olga.
“The Faculty of Geography, where Mallard spoke, has many links and relationships with New Zealand institutions and researchers. For Example, New Zealander Gordon Winder, Professor for Economic Geography and Sustainability Research at LMU Munich is Honorary Research Fellow at the School of Environment (The University of Auckland).”
During his visit, Mallard gave a presentation on “Sustainability, Conservation & Education in New Zealand” to geography and geology students. They asked lots of questions about sustainability, pollution, climate change, and what New Zealand’s response is to these challenges.
“Mallard emphasised that increased collaboration between our countries in areas of environmental research can create solutions to global issues. He also spoke of kaitiakitanga and the sense of responsibility Kiwis feels to protect their environment, which was really interesting to the students.”
After the presentation, the students continued the conversation with the Speaker at a reception alongside the New Zealand Ambassador to Germany HE Rupert Holborow and ENZ’s Team Europe.
“We will be working closely with LMU to foster relationships with New Zealand providers.” Said Olga.
