HI SCR144

University of Hawaii at Hilo is requested to search for a site in lower Puna on the Big Island to establish a learning center comparable to the North Hawaii Education and Research Center in Honokaa.

The proposed learning center would offer live and distance instruction courses to the underserved lower Puna area and create a research station for studies related to the region.

The learning center is intended to enhance community service, facilitate community outreach, provide university presence in lower Puna, and improve student access to higher education.

University of Hawaii at Hilo is requested to hold community meetings to assess educational needs and research opportunities in the area during its site search.

University of Hawaii at Hilo must submit a report with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2012 Regular Session convenes.