INTERNATIONAL COUNSELING - AN OPPORTUNITY FOR CULTURE-SPECIFIC COUNSELING WITH THE NEW-ZEALAND MAORI

Evidence of multiculturalism in New Zealand has become common throughout the educational system in the last two decades. In spite of these efforts, Maori leaders contend that the schools have failed to meet the needs of Maori students, citing continuing high dropout rates and low academic achievement of Maori youth to support their claims. Many Maoris are demanding a separate educational system for their youth. An embedded component of any improved education delivery system for the Maori involves the development of adequate and appropriate guidance and counseling services for Maori youth. A culture-specific model seems to be a most appropriate one.