By Katalina Siasau

HM King Tupou VI called for reform in the education sector and major improvements for the health sector, to help move the economy forward, when he opened the 2025-26 parliamentary session today, 23 May, at Parliament House in Nuku’alofa.

At the closing of the 2025 parliamentary session last week, the King in a message, called for honesty and accountability within the government. Today, the King reiterated this message, urging the present government to demonstrate accountability in managing public funds, in accordance with the constitution and relevant laws, and to be assessed by the Legislative Assembly.

The King worried that mismanagement of public funds would have a negative impact on the country, especially when dealing with unexpected challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and the current dengue outbreak.

He stressed that the wellbeing of the Ministry of Health affects the health of the Tongan people.

"We need the people of the country to be healthy and well-educated, for the state of the economy to develop."

"Despite the current challenges faced by the Ministry of Health, there's still enough opportunity to enhance education and reconsider previous decisions.”

He urged both the government and the Legislative Assembly to address this challenge promptly, including the issue of the emigration of skilled professionals such as doctors and nurses.

On education, he pointed out its important relationship to international opportunities, saying, “When people lack quality education, Tonga may become less appealing to foreign nations, which limits individuals to less desirable employment options, such as participation in temporary labour schemes.”

Recognizing the importance of maintaining the nation's education standards with foreign countries, the King highlighted the need for reforms in the current system. This is crucial for the younger generation aspiring to pursue further education and seek employment opportunities abroad, he said.

In the upcoming general election this year, the King said that the exercise of the democratic transition requires further improvements.

The King acknowledged the valuable contributions of foreign development partners to Tonga's development during the current financial year, noting that their support is vital for the government and Legislative Assembly to fulfill their duties.

The King conveyed his best wishes to the House for their deliberations throughout the coming year.

The opening of Parliament was attended by Members of Parliament, government officials, diplomatic representatives, and invited guests.

Following the ceremony, schools and their bands participated in a march along Taufa’ahau Road towards the Royal Palace in Nuku'alofa.