'Una Tupou (63) received the Japanese decoration of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays on June 11, in recognition for her significant contribution in the development of soroban education in Tonga.

Una, a former Senior Education Officer for the Ministry of Education, is recognised for administering the Soroban Education Fund and assisting soroban teaching teams from Japan during their annual visits to Tonga for 25 years.

During the presentation ceremony at the Janfull International Dateline Hotel, Japanese Ambassador in Tonga HE Mr Yasuo Takase, said Una was the first recipient of a Japanese decoration in Tonga.

He said the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays presented by HM the Emperor of Japan recognised a significant contribution by a non-Japanese person to Japan.

"Her decoration today is one of the most commemorable events in the 40th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Tonga," he said.

'Una offered her heartfelt thanks to the Emperor and the Government of Japan for the recognition.

She said that after she was told by the Government of Japan about the decoration she was a little concerned over whether she actually deserved it or not. She said she coordinated the program and ensured what the Japanese Soroban Envoy wanted but had never taught soroban in the classroom.

"I was then told that I made things happen for soroban education in Tonga and I am glad that I am one of those people who make things happen, and I praise God as my work is aimed at becoming a good Ambassador to Christ and to my country, Tonga," she said.

'Una has been retired for 12-years and resides at her home in Mataika, Tongatapu.

Attending the ceremony was the Minister of Education Hon Dr Tevita Palefau and Noble Tu'ivakano as well as family and friends.