“Walk the Talk”: USP Students Define the Leadership They Want Ahead of Elections
USP - Tonga Campus Youth Leaders
The Tonga Youth Vote campaign reached the University of the South Pacific (USP) Tonga Campus this week, where the Take the Lead (TTL) team met with USP youth leaders to discuss leadership, governance, and civic participation ahead of Tonga’s November General Elections.
The interactive session explored Tonga’s system of government as a constitutional monarchy, made up of the Legislative Assembly, Cabinet, and Judiciary, while also highlighting the roles of the King and His Privy Council in governance. Students gained a clearer understanding of how the system operates - and how that knowledge can help them make informed decisions at the polls.
During the session, USP students reflected on the kind of leadership they want to see guiding Tonga’s future. They emphasised the need for leaders who “walk the talk” - those whose actions match their campaign promises and who demonstrate integrity, humility, and wisdom in their decision-making. Students spoke about the importance of honesty, service, and accountability, describing leadership not as power or privilege, but as a responsibility to serve others fairly and with compassion.
Students also voiced their concerns on current national issues, including the environmental and social impacts of deep sea mining and the continued underrepresentation of women in leadership and political roles. They stressed that these are areas where thoughtful, inclusive, and forward-looking leadership is urgently needed.
Another key issue raised was the lack of access to voting for Tongans who are studying or travelling overseas during election time, which many students identified as a barrier that prevents young, eligible voters from participating. They called for this to be reviewed to make voting more inclusive and accessible for all citizens, regardless of location.
USP youth leaders are vote ready - informed, motivated, and determined to use their voices to drive the change they want to see in Tonga. For these students, voting is more than a civic duty; it is a powerful opportunity to shape the future they envision for their generation and their nation.
Reflecting on the session, USP Students Association President, ’Isitolo Siale, shared:
“This has been very informative for our student leaders here at USP Tonga Campus. With many of us voting for the first time this year, this session with Tonga Youth Vote has provided the essential information we need before heading to the polling stations.” USP Students Assocation President, ‘Isitolo Siale.
With voter turnout declining each election year, Take the Lead remains committed to addressing this challenge by equipping young Tongans and first-time voters with the knowledge, confidence, and tools to engage meaningfully in the electoral process. Through its Tonga Youth Vote initiative, TTL continues to visit tertiary institutions and outer island communities, ensuring that young people are not only informed but also empowered to take an active role in shaping Tonga’s future.
