The first Tongan student to study in Beijing in 2002 on a China Scholarship Council’s scholarship has been awarded with doctorate in Human Geography from the Anhui Normal University last week.
In a speech during the graduation ceremony by the Tongan Ambassador to China, Siamelie Latu he said: "I am proud to stand before you today on behalf of the Government of the Kingdom of Tonga and her parents, who have travelled many miles to witness Kililisitina's great achievement today. Kilisitina's achievement is definitely an excellent role model, in her family and in her village, to the Tongan communities in foreign countries, and at Anhui Normal University and to all the Tongan students who are studying here in the People's Republic of China, under scholarships offered by the China Scholarship Council".
Dr. Kilisitina Angahikifo'ou Puleiku is the eldest daughter of Mr. Tokaukamea Puleiku of Vaotu’u and ‘Olivia Hui Puleiku from Falehau Niuatoputapu. Tokaukamea is currently working as Chief Education Officer at the Quality Assurance Division of the Ministry of Education.
Among other Tongan students who graduated this year is Mr. Curtis Leonard Tu’ihalangingie of Kolomotu’a. Curtis graduated with BA in Diplomacy from the School of International Studies at Peking University. Curtis is the youngest son of Mr. Tevita Lenipo Tu’ihalangingie and Losaline Valamotu Tu’ihalangingie of Kolomotu’a.
Dr Puleiku (Left) with her parents
