Ministry of Education launches Innovative Education Initiative with Rachel Boxes in Tongatapu schools
17 October 2023. The Ministry of Education and Training conducted a successful pilot program for RACHEL Boxes, also known as the Hama Offline Platform.
Participating schools in this pilot activity were Piula Si’i and FWC Vaotu’u Primary representing nongovernment schools and government schools including Kanokupolu, Kolovai, Niutoua, Nukuleka, Ha’asini, and Nakolo(Kaiavale).
These devices provide students with access to a wide range of educational resources without the need for an internet connection.
These devices are equipped with pre-recorded educational videos and workbooks, with some materials in the Tongan language, ensuring that students have access to high-quality resources tailored to their needs.
One remarkable feature of the devices is their capacity to provide uninterrupted education, even in situations where a teacher is absent due to illness, This flexibility allows students to continue their studies during class times.
The Ministry’s officers and Project Management Unit’s team conducted training sessions for teachers to become administrators for the RACHEL Boxes, empowering them to oversee the devices in their schools effectively.
In addition to providing valuable education resources, the program also sought to raise awareness among parents about the advantages of these devices, ensuring that parents are well informed about the tools available to support their children’s education.
The principal of FWC Vaotu’u Primary School expressed immense satisfaction with the program, and their desire to participate in future opportunities. This speaks to the positive impact the initiative has had on educational experiences in Tonga. Other Principals from the other pilot schools were happy and excited to have been taught in these new educational resources.
The pilot program is a testament to the Ministry of Education and Training’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for students in Tonga, especially for those with limited access to the internet.
The success of this initiative paves the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for education in the Kingdom of Tonga.
This initiative and project is Funded by the Global Partnership of Education (GPE) along with Grant Agent – Save the Children Australia.
The implementation team consists of the Project Management Unit team and also officers from the Ministry of Education and Training.
