New Women’s Centre At Polytechnic (Press, 7 September 1987)

On 7 September 1987, it was announced that Christchurch Polytechnic would open the Next Step Centre for Women on Women's Suffrage Day, September 19. This new centre aims to offer various courses tailored for women, with a special mini-convention called Women Sharing Knowledge planned for the launch day. The convention will feature workshops, discussion groups, and guest speakers addressing various topics, including the Pacifica organisation, health alternatives, women's roles in religion, and the experiences of lesbian women. Ann Hercus, New Zealand's first Minister of Women's Affairs, is set to officiate the opening and participate in a morning tea event. A social gathering with snacks and beverages will close the day's activities, for which there is a small fee. Childcare will be available with prior arrangement. In addition to the opening event, the Next Step Centre will offer two new courses starting soon: Women Writing, focused on creative expression, and Women in Religion, exploring the portrayal of women in religious contexts. Each course runs for eight weeks at a fee of $22. Other upcoming courses include topics on health, law, recreation, and Maori women's issues. In health-related news, Dr Jan Watt has received a fellowship to research the development of low-weight babies born in Canterbury during 1983 and 1984. This research aims to determine whether these infants face greater developmental challenges compared to their normal-weight counterparts. On the political front, a public meeting will be held at the Christchurch Public Library on September 11, marking the anniversary of the military coup in Chile. Various speakers will discuss the sociopolitical situation in Chile and related challenges faced by Fiji. Educators are encouraged to attend an upcoming two-day seminar on race relations in New Zealand and South Africa on September 18 and 19, part of a curriculum shift focusing on cultural interaction. Teachers who reside within the university district may apply for fee refunds. Outdoor enthusiasts can enroll in a Tramping Survival Course starting on September 23, which offers practical survival skills necessary for safe tramping. Participants will learn essential skills over six weeks, culminating in a weekend camp experience. Another notable celebration is the 110th anniversary of Christchurch Girls’ High School, taking place on September 13 with an assembly and lunch event for alumni. Volunteers are needed for the Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Society’s new sitter programme aimed at providing respite for caregivers of dementia sufferers. Additionally, families can enjoy screenings of "International Velvet" at the Femland Cinema, while a spring fashion show at Hornby Mall will raise funds for Hornby Free Kindergarten on September 15. For parents of children approaching school age, a Starting School course is available beginning on September 28 through the Parents’ Centre.

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