New classrooms will be constructed for Malia Tupu ‘i Makulata Primary School which was damaged by Tropical Cyclone Gita, with USD$89,178 assistance from the Government of Japan. A building consisting of two classrooms and a bathroom facility will be constructed within six-months for around 170 students at the compound in Ma’ufanga.

Japanese Ambassador HE Tetsuya Ishii and Principal Fr Newcastle Niukapu signed a contract formalizing the grant provided under the Grassroots Human Security Project (GGP), on June 27, at St George Government Building.

The Ambassador said severe Tropical Cyclone Gita gravely affected many schools on Tongatapu and 'Eua this year and they hope to proactively assist the education sector, cooperating with the Tongan Government and other donor countries.

“It is my greatest pleasure to know that our efforts, including the GGP will assist more children around Tonga in receiving education in a safe and healthy environment and helping them to reach for their future dreams and possibilities.”    

Tu’akalau Tu’ipulotu from the Parents and Teachers Association thanked Japan for the generous assistance after the Catholic primary school was damaged by the cyclone. “Education is the key and passport for the children’s growth and future,” he said..