Grant recipients announced! Check out the innovative projects that got funding.

The OP Education Foundation Trust (OPEFT) is proud to announce the recipients of its latest grant round, supporting innovative and impactful student projects.

These grants are part of the Foundation's ongoing commitment to advancing learning, enhancing the educational environment, and promoting sustainability.

Read on to find out about the cool projects that were funded, and to find out the details of upcoming funding rounds.

Empowering Culinary Arts for Community Support and Sustainability

One of the highlighted projects this cycle is led by Alice Bickerstaff, along with Aaliyah Lovatt and Janet Hollard (pictured above), students of the Culinary Arts program (pictured above). They have been awarded a $2,000 grant to collaborate with Darlings Orchard and Kiwi Harvest. This project focuses on producing and distributing fruit crumble to struggling families in Dunedin. The grant will be used specifically to support food materials and packaging costs.

Alice Bickerstaff shared her excitement, stating, "Our project is also contributing to sustainability; we are utilising fruit that could not be sold in stores, preventing it from ending up in landfill. We are operating under a low-waste production model, using the peels and cores from processing the fruit to produce a delicious, mulled fruit cordial. Our packaging is 100% recyclable, and simple and convenient to use."

This initiative not only supports local families but also embodies sustainable practices by reducing food waste and using eco-friendly packaging.

Design Students Heading to Shanghai Summer School

In addition, Anna Duncan and Luana Ashton, both second-year Bachelor of Design students, have each received a $2,000 grant to cover international air travel expenses. They will attend the prestigious Shanghai Summer School at Donghua University from June 24 to July 19, 2024, through the Exchange Scholarship – Chinese Traditional Costume Program.

Anna Duncan elaborated on the significance of the program, "The programme will centre on the integration of recycled design and handicrafts, explore the feasible path to solve marine environmental pollution through design innovation, and build a recycled design solution for a zero-plastic ocean."

Their participation in this program highlights the global reach and innovative spirit of Otago Polytechnic students, focusing on sustainable design solutions.

Supporting Educational Excellence and Sustainability

Paul Allison, Chair of the OP Education Foundation Trust, emphasised the importance of these grants, saying, "The OPEFT is dedicated to supporting our students and staff in their pursuit of innovative projects that advance learning and sustainability. These initiatives demonstrate the incredible potential of our community to contribute positively to both local and global challenges."

Upcoming Funding Rounds

Do you have a project that contributes to educational excellence, sustainability, and community engagement?

Students and staff can apply for funding from the Otago Polytechnic Education Foundation Trust.

Deadlines:
July 31 2024
September 30 2024

For further information on the Otago Polytechnic Education Foundation Trust and its grant programs, visit the website or email OPEFT@op.ac.nz