Celebrating Uike 'o e Lea Faka-Tonga (Tongan Language Week) with cultural activities, performances, language and sport.

Mālō e lelei.

This week, OHS is celebrating Uike 'o e Lea Faka-Tonga (Tongan Language Week), with a programme of activities led by our Tongan students and Cultural Council. Throughout the week, students and staff have had opportunities to experience and learn more about Tongan language, culture and traditions.

The week began on Monday morning, when Tongan students welcomed staff at their daily briefing with a traditional prayer and song. Later that day, students presented a cultural performance at the full school assembly. On Tuesday, students took part in the Taumafa Kava, a formal Tongan kava ceremony with strong cultural traditions and protocols. Deputy Principals Ms Karen Bellis and Mr Matthew Haines attended the ceremony alongside students. Wednesday's programme included student-led sports competitions on the school fields, providing another opportunity for students to participate in the week's celebrations.

Today, the programme continued in the hall with a number of Tongan cultural performances. Through music and dance, students shared aspects of Tongan culture with students and staff.

We acknowledge our Tongan students and Cultural Council for their leadership in organising and presenting the activities. We also thank Head of Languages and Tongan teacher Ms Lute Langi for her guidance and work in coordinating the programme.

Further cultural performances are planned for Friday, bringing the week's celebrations to a close.

Mālō 'aupito mo e 'ofa atu.