Tonga High School students perform vibrant cultural dances for clocktower groundbreaking

Tonga High School Tau'olunga performed by prefects. Tonga High School clock tower groundbreaking ceremony. Nuku'alofa. 16 July 2026. Photo: Matangi Tonga

By Everest Hala

Former and current students of Tonga High School performed traditional cultural dances for HRH Princess Salote Pilolevu Tuita during the groundbreaking ceremony for the school's new clock tower at the Faa'imata grounds, today.

The Princess, as guest of honour of the ceremony, watched a series of faiva celebrating the start of the commemorative project.

A ma'ulu'ulu performed by former students, led by THS Principal 'Ana Veikoso (centre). Tonga High School clock tower groundbreaking ceremony. Nuku'alofa. 16 July 2026. Photo: Matangi Tonga.

Former students seated on chairs, opened the ceremony with a ma'ulu'ulu, followed by Form Seven girl prefects performing a tau'olunga performed led by the school's head prefect.

Form Seven boys and girls then joined together to perform a lakalaka.

Form Seven students perform a Lakalaka, led by head prefects (centre). Tonga High School clock tower groundbreaking ceremony. Nuku'alofa. 16 July 2026. Photo: Matangi Tonga.

Under clear skies, invited guests, former students, families and supporters witnessed the vibrant cultural performances and the official groundbreaking.

The ceremony was organised by the Tonga High School Ex-Students Association in partnership with the school’s Parent and Teachers Association (PTA) as part of a series of events leading up to the 80th anniversary celebrations in 2027.

Acting Prime Minister Dr Viliami Uasike, Acting Minister for Education Siaosi Sovaleni and other dignitaries also attended the event.