Seven new JICA volunteers arrived in Tonga in April, to commence their assignments on 23 May with various  government ministries and non-governmental organisations. Six of the volunteers will serve a two-year term, while one will complete a five-month term.

The Minstry of Foreign Affairs said  the volunteers bring a diverse range of skills and expertiseto support national development and local communities.

The group paid a courtesy visit to the Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Viliami Malolo, and Chairperson of the Volunteer Committee, Isikeli Oko.

JICA stated, "These volunteers will significantly contribute to their respective fields and foster strong relationships between the people of Tonga and their partner organizations."

The volunteers are currently undertaking an orientation program, including Tongan language and cultural orientation, and are scheduled to begin their assignments on 23 May.

Mr. Shinsuke Ogiso, will assist the Tonga Football Association with soccer coaching, while Mr. Azusa Takeuchi will work for the Tonga Broadcasting Commission in enhancing program production. Mr. Masato Michihara, a soroban teacher, will be based at the soroban unit of the Ministry of Education and Training.

MEIDECC will receive two volunteers, Ms. Ako Nakura in the field of disaster risk reduction management at the NDRMO in Nuku’alofa, and Ms. Ai Owaki in the field of environmental education at MEIDECC in Vava’u.

Ms. Yuri Murata specializes in dress making and will work at the 'Ahopanilolo Technical Institute.

Ms. Haruyo Kubo will serve five months, teaching music at the Tupou Tertiary Institute.

Since 1973, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have dispatched 589 Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) to Tonga, including 18 volunteers who are currently in country.

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