Tonga Language Week

Avondale College enjoyed celebrating Tonga Language Week last week. The 2025 theme was ‘Ko 'etau lea, ko e fe’unu mahu’inga ia ki he mo’ui ‘a e Tonga - Our language is a vital strand of our Tongan culture.’

The Tongan language is a vital strand of Tongan culture because it serves as the primary medium through which traditions, history, and social values are passed down. By speaking the mother tongue, oral stories, songs, dances and ceremonies are preserved and shared, keeping the rich cultural heritage alive.

Moreover, speaking Tongan reinforces a sense of belonging and pride, connecting individuals to their ancestors and to each other within the kainga.

At Avondale College, students are being encouraged and supported to lead the celebration.

The 2025 TLW was a huge success where students volunteered to showcase their talents through music and dance. A highlight was having Miss Filimoehala and the Avcol brass band play at assembly as well as the Friday lunchtime concert to conclude the celebration of the uike lea faka-Tonga.

‘Oatu e fakamalo loto hounga kihe fanau ako, kau faiako moe tauhi matu’a homou ngaahi tokoni kotoa pe. Faka’apa’apa atu, Komiti TLW Avcol.

- Ms V Sinisa