Recently, two government primary schools in Vava’u received furniture and school supplies donated by LDS Charities (the humanitarian arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) and Furniture for Schools, a New Zealand-based non-profit organization founded by members of the Church.
The donations were presented to Fangatongo Primary School Neiafu and to Pangaimotu Primary School.
It was a joyous event for Vava’u. The entire island showed their appreciation with traditional songs and dances.
Church leaders, Lutoviko Saipa'ia and Siale M. ‘Eliesa presented the gifts to Chief Supervisor of Government Schools, Sekonaia Tu'ipulotu, who thanked the Church. "I would like to thank The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for the great gifts you presented today. This is what we really need now in our classrooms. I know that our learning will be much better because now we have enough, clean safe chairs and desks in the classrooms.”
Speaking to the gathered children, Minister of Health Sosaia Ma'u Piukala said, "You can become what you want, don't let anyone tell you cannot. Do you want to be a doctor? Do you want to be a member of Parliament? I come from Pangaimotu and I attended this school. You can become whatever you want in the future."
Many other dignitaries also attended the handover ceremony.
Area Organizer of the government elementary schools in Vava'u, Sione Tokoma'ata said, "We really appreciate your help and love. We hope that the Lord will continue to bless you and the LDS Church because of this great work and gifts that you presented today".
Former Deputy Prime Minister Samiu K. Vaipulu flew in to Vava’u to attend the handover. "I know that the Principal, the PTA committee, students and parents are so happy. I hope that … we will continue to work hand in hand in building schools in Neiafu even in Vava'u.”