Story and photos by Linny Folau

It was a colourful day as 350 graduates received their Certificates and Diplomas from the Tonga Institute of Higher Education - some decked in colourful floral garlands and many piled-high with candies and money, on 15 December at Falemasiva Hall, at Haveluloto.

The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Lord Fakafanua presented the academic achievements, during the graduation ceremony attended by many families and friends.

In spite of a tough year for Tonga, with the volcanic eruption and tsunamis on 15 January, and the arrival of COVID-19, the institute persevered.

The School of Tourism and Hospitality produced the most graduates, with 181.

The School of Accounting had 58 graduates from different levels, and there were 52 from the School of Information and Technology, 46 from the School of Agriculture and 13 from the School of Communication (Media and Journalism).

Most of the graduates will be seeking jobs next year, while some are already employed. Others will pursue further studies.

Lord Fakafanua in congratulating the students for achieving their academic goals said, this should should not be the end of their education journey.

“Never be discouraged because this is just the start of your life. You have to implemement the knowledge and skills attained for your next milestone,” he said.

This graduation is also the last under the Ministry of Education and Training, as most government tertiary institutes will move to Tonga's new National Unversity, starting in 2023.