The PSNZ Education Fund is enabling paediatric professionals to advance their knowledge, share critical research, and improve health outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi across Aotearoa.
One recent recipient, Julie Cullen, used the grant to present at the PSNZ 75th Annual Meeting, where she shared her research on the impacts of digital technologies on child and adolescent health. Her presentation introduced new recommendations for safer screen use in education settings, helping paediatric professionals better support children, whānau, and educators.
"This funding allowed me to attend the conference and share my work with a diverse group of paediatric professionals. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and it has already led to further collaboration with the Ministry of Education to implement these recommendations in schools." – Julie Cullen
Julie’s research provided valuable insights for clinicians working with children and adolescents by raising awareness of the risks and opportunities of digital technologies, offering evidence-based strategies to support tamariki—particularly in Māori and low-income communities—and fostering collaboration among paediatric professionals, researchers, and policymakers.
The experience also benefited Julie by strengthening her professional networks, opening doors for further research and policy engagement with the Ministry of Education, and highlighting the role of allied health professionals in public health and leadership.
Julie’s work will continue to have an impact as these recommendations are shared with schools, kura, and early childhood education providers in 2025.