The Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga (SUTT) held its annual ‘Sapate Ako’ on Sunday, celebrated across SUTT churches in Tonga and around the world.
Sapate Ako or Education Sunday is a dedicated Sunday in the month of January just before teachers and students head back to school.

The event, a long-standing tradition, reinforces the SUTT’s dedication to integrating education with religious values, reinforcing its importance within the community.
Students and teachers attended in school uniforms, academic gowns, or the customary white Sunday best. Sermons across the nation highlighted education’s role in fostering spiritual and intellectual growth.
The President of the SUTT, Rev. Dr. Tevita Havea, delivered his key sermon at Nukunuku.
Meanwhile, Rev. Penisimani Tonga, a former spiritual counselor at Tonga High School and leader in the inter-school faith group Tonga Scripture Union, outlined the church’s 2025 education theme.

“The theme is focused on a reforming education that fosters a renewed commitment,” Rev. Tonga said during his sermon, stressing that education should rest on a foundation of faith.
“Education should rest on believing in and honouring Jesus Christ,” he added.