The immersive programme gives year 12 and 13 secondary students a taste of student life at the university, with the aim of encouraging them to consider tertiary study, especially at Otago.
Hands-On at Otago co-convener Dr Lisa Russell said staff put a lot of effort into creating great interactive experiences for the students. They would be based at Te Rangihīroa residential college and could try some university subjects and take part in a wide range of research projects, including lab work, theatre and dance, and even solve a murder mystery using forensics.
They would also have social and recreational activities to keep them busy, she said.
"It’s wonderful to see these young people grow in confidence over the week as they try out so many different activities and have lots of fun with their peers from around the country.
"They really get a sense of all the amazing programmes and experiences that Otago has to offer."
One would allow students to see behind the scenes of the Hocken Collections — one of New Zealand’s most historically significant heritage collections — and the other would give participants a chance to see what sustainability looked like on the Dunedin campus.
"They will visit Te Oraka, the student-led circular economy hub, and then check out one of the Sustainability Neighbourhoods to help monitor the biodiversity that is being supported through gardening activities and no-mow zones."
About a quarter of those attending this year would be Māori and Pacific students, 44 would be international students and 142 of the cohort would be on a scholarship.
The students were welcomed yesterday afternoon with a mihi whakatau at the Otago Business School.
