A new kindergarten facility opened this week in the village of Tu'anuku, Vava'u, with a celebration held on 3 February 2026 to mark a milestone for early childhood education in the community.
The project, led by US-based non-profit Friends of Tonga, reflects an international effort to provide the village’s youngest learners with a modern, resilient, and safe learning environment. Construction was made possible through a mix of professional athlete advocacy and global non-profit cooperation.
Friends of Tonga President, Dr. Michael Hassett, said the kindergarten is the result of strong cross-border partnerships. “This facility represents a successful collaboration between the Tongan diaspora and our international partners to address a critical need in early childhood education.”
He emphasized the building’s durability and purpose, adding, “This structure is built to last. It provides Tu'anuku with the security of knowing that, regardless of the elements, the children will always have a stable and secure place to learn.”
Funding for the project drew high-profile support from members of the Tongan diaspora, including rugby player Charles Piutau, who facilitated a significant donation from the Bristol Bears during his time with the club, and NFL player Giovanni Manu of the Detroit Lions.
Manu said giving back to Tonga has always been part of his journey.
“Tonga will forever hold a special place in my heart since I grew up there and shared countless great memories with my family. I told myself as I embarked on this journey of American football that if I ever made it to the big stage—the NFL—I would give back to the small nation that shaped me into the person I am today.”
Additional support came from Schools for Children of the World, which provided professional architectural designs and technical oversight to ensure the building meets modern safety standards. International funding and assistance were also provided by The Atlas Foundation and Edrington, while Perfect Beginnings Montessori Children’s House donated school furniture. Hundreds of individual donors from around the world also contributed. The Civil Society Forum of Tonga (CSFT) served as a primary local partner.
Friends of Tonga, founded in 2018 by returned Peace Corps Volunteers and local Tongan leaders, helps support disaster relief efforts following Cyclone Gita.
