A total of 167 graduates from the University of the South Pacific Tonga Campus celebrated their graduation at Falemasiva Hall on 18 of November.

Samoa’s Head of State, Afioga Uimalealiifano Vaaletoa Eti Sualauvi II, as Chancellor of the University, conferred the degrees that included Masters and Bachelor degrees as well as diplomas and certificates.

Masters were awarded in various programs including, Commerce, Professional Accounting, Education and Business Administration.

Bachelor degrees of Arts were awarded in Law, Education, Education (Primary/Secondary), Agriculture, Science, Engineering, Engineering Technology and Commerce, and post graduate diplomas, professional diplomas and certificates.

Prime Minister Hon. Hu'akavameiliku, also Minister of Education and Training, welcomed and congratulated graduates.

"Graduation is a very special occasion for all graduands and their families."

Vice-Chancellor and USP President, Professor Pal Ahluwalia told graduands they had finished this crucial stage and are now preparing to start a new fulfilling adventure by putting the knowledge learned to practice.

"The Tonga graduation witnessed a total of 167 students receive their certificates, diplomas and degrees. Of those graduating today, 72% are women, that is a remarkable figure."

He said 10 were also receiving two awards, 81 students came from Pacific TAFE programs and 56 were awarded from under graduate programs.

“I am also pleased to announce that we are awarding 29 post graduate certificates of which five have completed their Masters today,” he said. "That is a remarkable human resource capacity that is being added to Tonga."

“This graduation is significant as we are able to travel since the pandemic closed international borders and it is was also especially difficult for Tongans, due to the volcanic eruption and tsunamis.

“Today nevertheless is a celebration of your tenacity and your endurance.”

After the ceremony, Hon. Hu'akavameiliku welcomed HH Afioga Tuimalealiifano Va’aletoa Sualauvi II in a courtesy call, at his office, in St George Government Building.