Photos by Linny Folau

A special program including a peace march was held in Nuku'alofa on Saturday, September 21 to mark International Peace Day under a theme ‘Education for Peace’.

Church leaders, parliamentarians, students, youth groups, children and Non-Government Organizations came together for the occasion that began with the peace march from Vuna Wharf to Teufaiva Stadium, led by the Speaker of Legislative Assembly and CPAD chairman Lord Fakafanua with the Minister of Internal Affairs Lord Vaea.

Organised by the Tonga National Committee of Strengthening Capacities for Peace and Development (CPAD) the program at the stadium included prayers, speeches, entertainment and awarding of prizes to winning essay writers.

Prince Tungi awards prizes for essay winner Anna Jane Vea. Teufaiva Stadium, Tonga. 21 September, 2013

Anna Jane Vea of Tonga High School won the Form 3-4 category and read out her essay under a topic 'A famous person once said if you want to make peace you don’t talk to your friends you talk to your enemies'. 

Sosefo Ta’ai of ‘Apifo’ou College won the F1-2 category for the topic, 'I believe that an eye for an eye makes us all blind - write about your experiences with conflict and peace in your school and community'.

Prince Tungi was the guest of honour at the stadium program which was attended by members of the diplomatic corps among other guests.

The International Day of Peace also a Day of Ceasefire provided an opportunity for individuals, organizations and nationals to create acts of peace. Established by a United Nations resolution in 1981, the International Peace Day was first observed in September 1982.