Five first-year students in an in-country science program at the University of the South Pacific Tonga campus received High Achievement awards on March 29.

They were Mele Langafo’ou Tupou in chemistry; Sela Na’a Latu in biology; Mumui La’akulu in environmental science; Gatton Tonga in environmental science and Nimilote Halatoafa in marine science.

Dr Bibhya Sharma, in-country Science Program Coordinator, said there is a strong advocacy for science in the region from Professor Rajesh Chandra, Vice-Chancellor and President of USP and Dr Anjeela Jokhan, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Technology & Environment.

This is the first face-to-face in-country science program developed and implemented in Tonga, with the hopes of extending it to other regional campuses, he said.

One of the recipients Mumui La’akulu, a mother and teacher, said at it was difficult at the start of the program because it was new. "This award has encouraged me that it is possible to achieve much more regardless of our age and situation," she said.

The Minister for Education Hon Penisimani Fifita congratulated the students for their hard work to advance their knowledge. “Education is the key to success," he said.