Having completed a Master of Economics through USP’s School of Accounting, Finance and Economics (SAFE), Tau’aika is determined to apply his expertise to support Tonga’s transition towards cleaner, more resilient energy systems.
During his studies, he presented a research paper titled “Solarisation in the Remote Islands of Tonga” at the Pacific Research Update 2025, hosted by USP in partnership with the Australian National University (ANU). His research examined how solar energy can be integrated across remote island communities to improve accessibility and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.
“That opportunity gave me a voice in the renewable energy conversation,” Tau’aika said.
“It helped me connect what I learnt in economics to the real challenges facing Tonga – how energy security and affordability are vital for sustainable growth.”
His passion for energy economics aligns closely with USP’s regional mission to address critical development challenges in the Pacific, including climate resilience, low-carbon transition, and sustainable livelihoods.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Tau’aika served as the Postgraduate Student Representative for the School of Accounting, Finance and Economics under the USP Students’ Association (USPSA). In this leadership role, he advocated for student welfare, strengthened collaboration across disciplines, and promoted an inclusive academic community.
“Serving as a student representative taught me the value of servant leadership,” he reflected. “At USP, we are not just individuals chasing qualifications – we are a community striving to make an impact together.”
He shared that one of his most significant learnings at USP was the importance of building regional networks and solidarity among Pacific scholars.
“We came from different countries, but we live on the same ocean,” Tau’aika said. “Our challenges – from climate change to economic instability – are interconnected. That’s why collaboration among Pacific nations is key to creating sustainable solutions.”
Now serving as an Economist in Tonga’s Department of Energy, Tau’aika hopes to contribute to renewable energy policy and long-term development strategies.
“I want to use the knowledge I gained at USP to promote renewable energy’s accessibility, affordability, and security for all Tongans,” he said. “The tools and perspectives I developed here have given me confidence to contribute meaningfully to national policy and regional development.”
Tau’aika’s contribution to Tonga’s renewable energy transition is grounded in practical, community-focused action. He has coordinated national training programmes in sustainable energy, helped develop and formalise qualifications to strengthen local capacity, and delivered workshops that support clean-energy business start-ups and entrepreneurship across Tonga and the wider Pacific.
His commitment to community empowerment includes supporting disability-inclusive disaster care, guiding youth towards positive business pathways, and helping women’s groups grow small enterprises and promote healthier lifestyles.
He expressed gratitude to the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship for supporting his studies, noting that the scholarship provided an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with a diverse global network of scholars committed to driving change.
Reflecting on his journey, he paid tribute to his lecturers and the staff of the School of Accounting, Finance and Economics, as well as the Research, Employment and Student Training (REST) Office, for their guidance and encouragement.
“USP didn’t just give me an education – it shaped my purpose,” he said.
“The University builds leaders who understand the Pacific and are ready to serve it.”
About USP
As USP opens applications for Semester 1, 2026, stories like Tau’aika’s highlight the transformative impact of Pacific education and the opportunities awaiting students who want to make a difference in their communities. New students are invited to discover their path and apply for studies in one of our internationally accredited programmes at: www.usp.ac.fj/apply
Former students returning within three years can apply via www.usp.ac.fj/resume For assistance, please reach out to USP via contactus [at] usp [dot] ac [dot] fj
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