22 Oct 2018

Tongan university registered for first time

4:59 am on 22 October 2018

Christ's University has become the first locally-owned university to be registered and accredited in Tonga.

Generic Library / Students

Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller

Matangi Tonga reports the university, located in Nuku'alofa, is owned by the Tokaikolo Church.

The Education Minister Penisimani Fifita says the registration is a milestone as it is the first to be recognised by the Tonga National Qualification Accreditation Board.

Christ's University Acting Chairman, Sangster Saulala, says while pleased it is now up to the institution to prove it deserve the registration.

Mr Saulala says there are a lot of international investors wanting to connect with the university but they have been waiting for the registration.

The University says it has a variety of courses available and currently caters to around 50 students with the aim of accommodating around 200.

Degrees in computer science, education, theology and business management are being offered with law being added next year.

The locally-owned tertiary academy, Atenisi Institute, has been registered since 2011.

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