The Tonga National University (TNU) has appointed Dr. Giulio Masasso Tu’ikolongahau Paunga as its inaugural Vice Chancellor, effective this month.
This milestone coincides with the university’s second anniversary, established in January 2023.
Dr. Paunga, brings nearly four decades of experience in public service and higher education. He previously served as Deputy Vice Chancellor and Vice President for Regional Campuses and Global Engagement at the University of the South Pacific (USP) from June 2014 to June 2024. In this role, he managed USP’s 14 campuses across 12 member countries.
His tenure at USP also included a period as Acting Vice Chancellor and President from February to August 2021, during a challenging phase for the institution.
Dr. Paunga’s public service career in Tonga spanned from 1987 to 2004, including roles as Minister for Labour, Commerce & Industries and Minister Responsible for Tourism.
Academically, he holds a PhD and a Master’s degree in Economics from Daito Bunka University in Tokyo, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Wesleyan University in Connecticut, USA. He is fluent in Japanese and has contributed to various publications on economic and social development.
The TNU Council expressed confidence in Dr. Paunga’s leadership to advance the university’s priorities, including program accreditation and the development of courses that address the needs of the Tongan people, with an emphasis on Tongan language and culture.
Former prime minister and minister for Education, Siaosi Sovaleni, resigned as TNU Pro-Chancellor and Chair of the University Council last December. Dr. Tangikina Skeen had held the role of Interim Vice-Chancellor until Dr. Paunga’s appointment.