Summarised by Centrist
The University of Auckland has imposed a new requirement for all students, including international ones, to take a mandatory course on the Treaty of Waitangi and New Zealand history.
Critics argue that making the course compulsory infringes on students’ freedom to choose their education, raising concerns about political indoctrination and one-sided narratives around the Treaty.
Opponents, like Don Brash and Hobson’s Pledge, claim that the course could be pushing a specific political agenda, with contested aspects of New Zealand history, such as Māori sovereignty, being taught as fact.
They argue that this mandatory course could discourage critical thinking, suggesting students may be penalised for holding differing views.
Supporters of the course, however, see it as a way to promote a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s history and foster social cohesion.
Brash and others are calling for clarity from the university on several points: Can students opt out? Will they be penalised for challenging the course’s content?
