The 'Atenisi Foundation for Performing Arts (AFPA) was awarded a grant of $100,000 by the Prime Minister, Hon. Dr Feleti Sevele at the 'Atenisi University Graduation Ceremony on Saturday November 15.

The Prime Minister's Office In a statement said that the grant was in recognition of AFPA's "unique contribution to the arts and culture in Tonga through the special training it provides in singing, dancing and classical music."

The Prime Minister also thanked the Founder of 'Atenisi University, Professor Futa Helu for providing "an affordable academic institution in the Kingdom for thousands of our young people."

"On behalf of His Majesty's Government and the people of Tonga, I congratulate and thank the Founder. . .for his vision and the establishment of the first local university in Tonga."

At the ceremony AFPA performed one of the Late Queen Salote Tupou III's most popular Lakalaka compositions, the 'Lomipeau.' They also performed the Me'etu'upaki, a group dance that is so old that no one knows the meaning of the lyrics, and presented a Samoan solo dance. Musical interludes featured violinist, Loata Mahe, and pianist Sisi...’uno Helu, playing the theme from the film 'Schindler's List' and 'Winter' from Vivaldi's Four Seasons. Also featured was bass soloist Potesio Tu'itupou, in his rendition of Gabriel Figure's 'Libere me, Requiem' in D minor, accompanied by AFPA's all-women's choir.

The Dux for 'Atenisi for 2008 was 'Anaseini Toe'umu 'a Lotuma Likiliki who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Distinction).

The Dux for 2007 was Fiotelisa Manu'atu who graduated with a Bachelor of Science (High Distinction).

HRH Princess Salote Mafile'o Pilolevu Tuita, was the Guest of Honour at the ceremony, and the other distinguished guests included the Minister for Education, Hon Dr. Tevita Palefau, Minister for Labour, Commerce and Industries, Hon Lisiate 'Akolo, the Australian High Commissioner, H.E. Mr Bruce Hunt, and the New Zealand High Commissioner, H.E. Ms Christine Bogle.