Radio & TV Tonga, Nuku’alofa, 13/10/2020

A national examination took place this morning for classes two, four and class five students throughout Tonga to identify the exact number of students in primary schools.

The Education Minister told MPs in Parliament, the concern is because there is a shortage of teachers in schools at the moment hence, the need to address the issue for the new 2021 academic year.

Hon. Siaosi Sovaleni says, it is therefore important for students to register for this year in accordance with the Education Act 2013 which highlights the need for ages 4 to 18 to attend school.

He adds, with today’s exams, they are hoping to collect data from the number of students currently studying and from there, they would be able to see the number of teachers assigned to the schools.

He says, parents are responsible for registering their children in preparation for next year and although some may register late, there would be no penalty.

The hope is to discuss with parents on why their children are staying home from school and what the Ministry can do to address this issue.

Discussions have been carried out with parents of students in the Western district which will continue throughout Tonga.

© Radio and Television Tonga News