By Katalina Siasau

An educational program that aims to develop critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity among students was launched by the Ministry of Education and Training Tonga (MET), Samsung and the UNDP Accelerator Lab Pacific, in Nuku'alofa today.

Called the “Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Challenge” the program aims to develop skills that students can use to solve current social and environmental challenges in their communities in Tonga.

The event held at the Tanoa International Hotel, this morning was hosted by UNDP Accelerator Lab Pacific. Tonga is the first country in the Pacific to engage with the program.

CEO for MET, Mr ‘Isileli Oko said, “This programme gives us the opportunity to empower Tongan students, and enable them to be active in developing solutions and creating awareness from demanding local development issues.”

The program involves teacher’s free professional development support, students mentorship, and activities.

Samsung Representatives from New Zealand, UNDP staff, education directors, school teachers and students, attended the launch.

Earlier this year, Tonga joined the nationwide competition "Samsung Solve for Tomorrow", when ‘Isikeli Oko and Samsung's New Zealand president Mr H.M. Chun signed a MoU agreement in Nuku'alofa.