Posted in General Tongan Students Visit Parliament

Date: 02 June 2023

 

OHS is fortunate to have generous Alumni who give back to the school in so many ways. Member of Parliament Anahila Kanongata’a-Suisuiki and Sepa Hausia-Schaumkel have for many years now, given up their precious time to take the Fakatoukatea Leadership Programme for a select group of Year 9 Tongan students. In Year 13 these students have been taken on an all expenses paid trip to Parliament !

Students were given a tour of Parliament and the National Library, learning about the role of Parliament and how laws are made. Students expressed surprise that anyone of any age or background could make submissions to the select committee. They were very fortunate to be able to speak with several members of parliament who shared their journeys to politics.

As always the highlight for many was sitting in the House of Representatives observing the members discuss the business of the day. It is fair to say our students were a little shocked by the adversarial nature of the debating, but were really interested in topics being discussed, which were the impact changes to NCEA Level 1 may have and the increase in the number of ram raids.

This is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about government. It is inspirational and students left understanding how the government works and how what they do impacts all our lives every day. They now understand if you want to make a difference, if you want to make changes to improve the lives of people, then you must be well informed and vote at the elections and maybe one day stand for Parliament!

We wish to thank most sincerely Anahila and Sepa and all those who make this fantastic opportunity possible and those Members who were so generous with their time.