Fakakoloa ‘o Aotearoa ‘aki ‘a e Ako Lelei- enriching Aotearoa with holistic education, is this year’s theme for Uike Kātoanga’i ‘o e lea faka-Tonga – Tonga Language Week.
Tongans make up 1.7 percent of New Zealand’s population. Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio says, “education is highly valued in the Kingdom of Tonga and this year’s Tonga Language Week explores the importance of education and how Aotearoa can benefit.” Tongans have one of the highest rates of PhDs per head of population.
Due to the Alert Level 3 and Level 4 lockdown, the week long celebration was officially launched online via Facebook Live. Rev. Setaita Kinhoi Veikune offered prayers and blessings for the start of the celebration.
Minister Sio opened the ceremony and used the opportunity to also encourage people to get vaccinated during the lock down regardless of any visa issues.
Minister Sio opens Tonga Language Week – Facebook
Tonga Language Week runs from September 5 to September 11, 2021.