A charitable trust built to turn research into real outcomes.
CERT began with a simple idea: research means little until it changes something for someone. We’re a Hamilton-based charitable trust connecting academic research, education and community wellbeing for people across Aotearoa New Zealand.
We identify what communities truly need, then build the research and programmes to meet it — grounded in evidence, delivered with people, not just for them.
Community Education & Research Trust (CERT) is a registered New Zealand charitable trust advancing education, research and community wellbeing for public benefit.
How CERT does its work
From identifying a need to delivering a programme, here’s how an idea becomes community impact.
Listen First
We spend time with the people affected before we write a single recommendation.
Design the Response
Findings are turned into practical, achievable programmes — not just reports.
Build with Volunteers
Research, admin, IT, marketing and outreach teams bring each programme to life.
Deliver & Learn
Programmes launch, are evaluated, and inform the next piece of research.
Our values
Evidence First
Every programme starts with research, not assumption.
With Communities
We work alongside the people we serve, not just for them.
Practical Impact
Insights only matter once they become real programmes.
Open Governance
A volunteer Board of Trustees keeps CERT accountable.
CERT Board of Trustees
Our volunteer Board of Trustees provides governance and oversight for CERT’s work across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Liaquat Changezi
Hirosha Liyanage
Dr. Asanka Nilakshi Dissanayake
Dr. Lakshan Attanayake
Jitesh Khosla
Isanka Korala
Piyumdee Dihansa
Our Team
Dr. Ranjith Dickwella
Madusha Hansini
CERT by the numbers
A small trust with a clear focus — here’s where things stand today.
Building stronger communities through research collaboration
We bridge academic research with real community needs — bringing evidence, innovation and access to funding to the people who need them most.
Evidence-Based Solutions
Practical, research-backed responses to community challenges.
Innovation & Sustainability
Supporting sustainable solutions for long-term social development.
Community Partnerships
Bridging academic research with real needs through meaningful ties.
Access to Funding
Improving access to funding and resources for community projects.
Community Programmes
Running creative and educational initiatives — from youth art exhibitions to writing programmes — that give communities a voice.
The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.CERT Volunteer Philosophy
Let’s build a lasting impact together.
Ngā mihi — thank you for taking the time to learn about CERT. Whether you want to volunteer, partner on research, or just ask a question, we’d love to hear from you.
