The Department of Climate Change – National Ozone Unit Partners with Tonga National University to Strengthen Ozone Science Awareness

Nukuálofa, 28 October 2025, The National Ozone Unit of the Department of Climate Change initiated an Awareness Workshop on the Science of the Ozone Layer and the Montreal Protocol as part of its ongoing national education and outreach programme. The Unit extended an invitation to the Tonga National University (TNU) to host the event, which the University graciously accepted, demonstrating its commitment to advancing science and climate-related education in Tonga.

The workshop was conducted by a joint team comprising Mr. Áloisio Fifita, National Ozone Officer from the Department of Climate Change; Mr. Sau Niulala, Deputy CEO for Customs Border Control; and Mr. Fatafehi Fakatava, representative from the Tonga Refrigeration and Engineering Association (TREA).

Vice Chancellor Dr. Giulio Masaso Tu‘ikolongahau Pāunga warmly welcomed the team, expressing his appreciation for the initiative and the opportunity to collaborate. He highlighted that this partnership could strengthen TNU’s science and research capacity through potential climate change funding support and emphasized his hope that such initiatives become ongoing engagements rather than one-time events.

Facilitated by Mr. Fifita, the workshop provided a scientific overview of the ozone layer, explaining its formation through the Chapman Cycle and the importance of maintaining the natural atmospheric balance. Mr. Niulala elaborated on the critical role of Customs officers in controlling ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and their close coordination with the National Ozone Unit under the Montreal Protocol. Mr. Fakatava concluded the session with an engaging presentation on the practical applications of controlled refrigerants in the refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) sector, emphasizing the need to establish an accredited RAC training course at TNU to ensure safe handling practices and national technical capacity.

The workshop was attended by Deputy Vice Chancellor Dr. Tangikina Moimoi Steen, senior lecturers, academic staff, and students from various faculties. Representatives from the Ministry of Education and Training were also present and expressed strong support for integrating ozone science and climate change topics into Tonga’s education curriculum.

This initiative builds upon previous awareness programs conducted by the National Ozone Unit at the former Teachers’ Training College (now part of TNU) over the past five years. The main objective remains consistent in transferring scientific knowledge of the ozone layer and environmental protection to future educators who will, in turn, pass this knowledge on to the next generation of Tonga.

The collaboration between the National Ozone Unit, TNU, HM Customs, and TREA highlights Tonga’s continued commitment to protecting the ozone layer, advancing environmental education, and building a sustainable future through a synergized and robust approach to environmental protection and climate resilience.

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