In 1877, Kate Edger became the first woman in New Zealand to gain a university degree.

She was a great supporter of the Suffrage Movement and advocated strongly for women to use the vote to bring about change and improvement in society. Read more >

The Awards Programme

The Trust is funded primarily by social enterprise Academic Dress Hire with over 1500 financial awards funded since the Trust’s inception in 2005.

Selection is based on an academic and holistic approach, considering such things as financial need, whether the applicant is first in family to study or any challenges they may have. Awardees tell of the profound impact receiving an award has on both their financial and emotional wellbeing, providing acknowledgment and encouragement as well as financial support.

Learn more about our Awards

Alumni Programme

Behind every awardee is a story with a goal for success and a dream to make a difference. Our awardees come from all walks of life and bring with them hopes and dreams that education helps to make a reality.

Read the stories from our Alumni here >

Introducing the Master of Music Therapy Award, Sponsored by the  Gattung Foundation & Supported by the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust

The purpose of the award is to encourage diversity within the music therapy profession, and to assist a woman (giving consideration to the applicant’s Māori/Pasifika background) to carry out full-time study in either the first or second year for a Master of Music Therapy.  If the awardee is in the second year, the award will include a minimum 750 hour placement with the Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust.  Raukatauri is committed to supporting students on placement into employment and intends to extend that commitment to recipients of this award.

See our Awards Programme for more information

Gattung Foundation >

Raukakauri Music Therapy Trust >

Our Awards can be life changing…

“The confidence that I have gained from receiving an award like this is invaluable. In the challenging and high-pressure environment of University, I have found that my confidence in myself and my abilities has diminished greatly. This award has motivated me to continue trying to better myself and for this I really do thank you”

– Samantha | Bachelor with Honours Award

Funding Partnership Opportunities

Support our mission to promote, advance and encourage education by joining The KEECT Sponsor Partnership programme,
or by leaving a Gift in your Will.

Learn More Here