2025, OPSITARA once again demonstrated the strength of our shared research culture and the power of collaboration across institutions, disciplines, and communities. This year, OPSITARA brought together researchers from across Aotearoa, with strong representation from Ara Institute of Canterbury and Otago Polytechnic, alongside contributions from SIT, EIT, Toi Ohomai, NMIT, and colleagues from the wider polytechnic sector. With almost one hundred presentations, OPSITARA showcased research spanning health,education, the built environment, digital innovation, sport and exercise science, creative practice, mātauranga Māori, and business. The breadth of inquiry demonstrated in this collection of abstracts highlights both the unique identity of the polytechnic sector and its commitment to impactful and community-anchored research.

We were fortunate to host two keynote speakers whose insights framed the symposium’s themes. Dr Lisa Maurice-Takerei explored the impacts of reform, marketisation, and shifting ideologies on the VET sector in her address Rising from Reform: Polytechnics and Recovery in Disquieting Times. She reminded us of the importance of educator voice, public purpose, and the ongoing need to protect the transformative mission of vocational education. 

Dr Gianna Leoni (Ngāi Takoto, Ngāti Kuri, Te Aupōuri) addressed the opportunities and risks surrounding AI in Kaitiakitanga: Protecting Mana Motuhake in the Age of AI. Drawing on her work at Te Hiku Media, she highlighted the importance of Indigenous data sovereignty, ethical AI development, and the protection of te reo Māori at a time of significant technological and political change.

The research presented at OPSITARA 2025 reflects the sector’s creativity, applied focus, and deep commitment to serving learners, industries, and communities. Research of this kind enriches our teaching, strengthens our institutions, and supports learners, employers, and communities to thrive.

Scott Klenner, Conference Chair, OPSITARA 2025