About 400 Tongan students have graduated from China’s universities under the Chinese government scholarships, a contribution to Tonga's education and development, the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Chinese Embassy Mr Ruan Dewen said at an event to mark International Education Day in Tonga.

The Tonga National University (TNU) held a Staff Retreat Planning Day that was joined by Mr Dewen, the TNU Vice Chancellor Dr Steen, deans, head of sSchools, and TNU staff, on January 24, at Fa'onelua Convention Centre

Mr. Ruan acknowledged the importance of high education for the country's young people.

“Up to now, about 400 Tongan students have graduated from Chinese universities under Chinese government scholarships. They worked in different areas in Tonga, contributing to Tonga’s development and promoting friendship between Tonga and China.”

In promoting education, China sent teachers to teach agricultural techniques and Chinese language “and helping Tongan people to make a better living and Tongan student to know better about China and Chinese culture, which, just like Tonga culture, has a long history,” he said.

Last year, a high level delegation led by Mr. Hao Ping, head of Beijing University, China’s top university, visited TNU and invited Dr. Steen to attend Bejing University Forum, an opportunity to promote exchanges between TNU and Chinese universities.