Radio & TV Tonga, Nuku’alofa, 29/09/2020

The Education Minister is working in partnership with the NZ government for Tonga’s Education Framework Policy 2020.

In his remarks during a program at the Fa’onelua Convention Centre yesterday, the Education Minister – Siaosi Sovaleni says, he is delighted with the opportunity to work with related stakeholders in formulating a new policy for education in Tonga for the benefit of the recipients.

“Tonga’s Education Policy Framework that has been driving the development of education in Tonga ended last year. It was from 2004 to 2019, 15 years and we are happy to announce that New Zealand will be working with the Ministry of Education in developing the new Education policy 2020. Furthermore, we’ve had some discussions with the government of Japan about some possible assistance in inclusive education. Currently, in Tonga there is only one inclusive education classroom and that’s in the GPS Ngele’ia. But what we are looking for establishing some classes or classrooms in Ha’apai, Vava’u, ‘Eua and also other parts of Tongatapu. All of this will fit into the development of the new education policy framework, and that’s why we’re thankful for New Zealand and Japan for their assistance in these key sectors of the education.”

The Minister also talked about the significance of education in Tonga.

“The importance of education in developing countries like Tonga cannot be overstated. Education can be the catalyst needed to pull families and communities out of the cycle of poverty. Knowledge gives children the power to dream; To dream of a better future, and the confidence needed to pursue a full education which in turn, will help generations to come. The relationship between poverty and education is complex but we know that education helps people make healthier and smarter decisions about their children, their livelihoods, and the way they live.”       

The Minister hopes that by the end of the SET project, they will be able to achieve their goals and milestone over the next 3 years.

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