Tonga National University (TNU) has concluded a three-day program aimed at elevating its nursing qualifications to a Bachelor’s degree level.
The initiative, facilitated by Dr Losa Moata’ane of the University of Otago, is part of her four-year Tangi Mei Moana (TMM) project. Dr Moata’ane, currently based at TNU through her Royal Society Ngā Puanga Pūtaiao Fellowship, stated, “This project is dedicated to providing capacity building and professional development opportunities for TNU staff, enhancing student support services, and fostering community empowerment initiatives.”
Key contributions came from Tongan nursing experts based in New Zealand, including Associate Professor Sione Vaka from the University of Waikato, Mrs Úngatea Tuítupou Havea of Victoria University, Wellington, and Mr Tevita Hingano from Central Region’s Technical Advisory Services Limited.
TNU Vice-Chancellor Dr Massaso Pāunga expressed gratitude, saying, “We extend heartfelt gratitude to the New Zealand team for their invaluable contribution to their home country through TNU, and invite our Tongan scholars abroad who would like to follow their footsteps to reach out and engage with the university.”
The Health Minister Dr Ána Ákauóla, Dr Landless from the United States, and Dr Anup from the World Health Organization attended the program.
