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Abstract |
In New Zealand Maori are under-reperesented in the workforce across multiple sectors. This thesis explores this incongruity with regard to Maori health. A Maori perspective and philosophical foundation formed the basis of the methodological approach, utilising a case study research design to inform the study. This provided the opportunity to explore Maori health workforce development initiaitves and their potential to contribute to improvements and gains in Maori health.
It was important that this work take into account social and ecomonic factors and their impact on health, as well as the varying political climates of market oreinted reform and a fiscal policy focus, because it has not only challenged Maori health development but also provided opportunites for increased Maori involvement and participation in health and New Zealand soicety. Therefore the thesis, while focused on health takes cognisance of and, coincides with the capacity and capability building efforts that have been a feature of overall Maori development, progress and advancement.
In the context of this thesis Maori health workers are seen as leaders within their whanau, hapu, iwi, and Maori communities. Consequently a potentional workforce that is strong and powerful can lead to anticipated gians in Maori health alongside other Maori movements for advancement. The potential cannot be under-estimated.
This thesis argues that there are critical success factors, specific determinants, influencing Maori health workforce potential, and that these success factors have wider application. Therefore, as this thesis suggests Maori workforce development, especially in relationship to the health workforce, is dependent on effective Maori leadership, the application of Maori values to workplace practices, levels of resourcing that are compatible with training and development, critical mass, and targeted policies and programmes. |
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