Education Day opens the school year for 2024

With four days left before the school term starts for 2024, the Department of Education hosted their annual Education Day today.

Teachers, education workers, government ministers and members of parliament as well as the public service commission gathered together at the Scenic Matavai resort conference room. 

The theme for the day and for 2024, according to the UNESCO International Education Day, is “Learning for Lasting Peace.”

The opening programme had speeches delivered by former Director of Education (DOE) Birtha Togahai, Head of ECE Mrs O’Love Hekesi, Mrs Nicola Puheke representing Niue Primary School, Niue High School Principal Charles Ioane and Deputy Moira Jackson, followed by the new DOE Natasha Tohovaka and Minister of Social Services Hon. Sonya Talagi.

As the former DOE Birtha Togahai bid her farewells, the new director Mrs Natasha Tohovaka commended Birtha for all her hard work and dedication in her role in previous years. 

Natasha also expressed her thoughts of gratitude to the teachers of Niue who play an important role for the children’s learning journey. 

“We all know that a great education is one of the strongest foundations for a prosperous life, a flourishing society and a strong economy. And as teachers we play a very significant role in achieving this vision.”

“We are very grateful for your contributions for our children’s learning journey. When they succeed, we all succeed,” said Natasha in her speech this morning.

In her speech, Minister Sonya Talagi shared her commitment in supporting the education sector, especially teachers.

“My role is to support each and every one of you, to strengthen you for the betterment of our children and our collective futures,” said Hon. Talagi.

This year’s education day also marks the significance for Niue’s 50th constitution anniversary where a panel presentation took place on the topic of Education of 50 Years on & Education Tomorrow and Beyond. 

Panellists included Speaker of the Niue Legislative Assembly Hon. Hima Douglas, Common Roll members Hon. O’Love Tauveve Jacobsen and Hon. Billy Graham Talagi, former Chair of the Vagahau Niue Trust Mrs. Mele Nemaia and Massey University Pacific Liaison Mr Suniou Freddie Liuvaie. 

The first school term for 2024 is due to start next week Monday 29 January.