by Katalina Siasau

The Tonga National University today celebrated about 600 graduates, receiving high-level qualifications and certificates in tourism management, engineering, and nursing and other fields.

The University Chancellor, King Tupou VI with Queen Nanasipau'u, attended the ceremony, to present the students with their certificates and degrees.

The Tonga High School Indoor Stadium was packed with families and friends celebrating the colourful graduates.

This is the second graduation ceremony of the university, in its second year.

From the Faculty of Education, Arts & Humanities, 51 graduates were awarded a Diploma in Secondary Education, and for 24 a Diploma in Primary Education.

There were 20 graduates with Bachelor of Education in Secondary Teaching, and seven with Bachelor of Education in Primary Teaching.

Siix graduates received a Bachelor in Tonga Early Childhood Education.

From the Queen Salote School of Nursing and Midwifery, 30 graduates were awarded an Advanced Diploma in Nursing.

Hundreds of students received qualifications in various programs, including Business, Tourism, Maritime, Plumbing, and other Engineering fields.

TNU has four faculties, including the Faculty of Science & Technology, Faculty of Education, Arts & Humanities, Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences and the Faculty of Business and Public Administration.