Tribal leaders nationwide are rallying to put Maori education at the top of their priority lists.
The Iwi Chairs Forum, attended by about 36 iwi leaders in Gisborne last week, passed a resolution to increase and accelerate investment into Maori-medium education.
It came as Education Minister Hekia Parata announced a $31 million programme for Maori secondary students, which integrates parts of the cancelled Te Kotahitanga initiative.
A member of the forum's matauranga and education branch, Haami Piripi, is praising Ms Parata and says her goals are aligned with those of iwi leaders.
They are both determined to see an improvement in Maori education and together, a world-leading strategy could be formed, he says.