Quality apprenticeship
Tonga launches its first-ever National Apprenticeship Policy with ILO support
New policy aims to strengthen pathways from education and training to employment and support the development of a skilled and resilient workforce across the Pacific nation.
25 August 2026
NUKU’ALOFA (ILO News) – The Government of the Kingdom of Tonga has launched its first National Apprenticeship Policy (TNAP) 2026–2030, establishing a national framework for an inclusive, industry-driven and quality-assured apprenticeship system.
His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala officially launched the policy on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, in Nuku’alofa.
Grounded in the principles of the ILO Quality Apprenticeships Recommendation, 2023 (No. 208), the policy aims to better connect education and training with employment through structured workplace and institutional learning leading to recognised qualifications.
Tonga aims to expand apprenticeships to 10 occupations in hospitality and tourism and construction and trade, while increasing overall TVET enrolment by at least 25 per cent by 2030. The policy also provides for tripartite oversight, nationally agreed apprenticeship agreements and apprentice remuneration.
“Quality apprenticeships connect education and training with the workplace, enabling people to acquire relevant skills and recognised qualifications while gaining practical experience,” said Martin Wandera, Director of the ILO Office for Pacific Island Countries, addressing the launch.
The policy builds on Tonga’s first quality apprenticeship pilot in cookery, launched in 2024 by the Department of Labour in collaboration with the Tonga Chamber of Commerce and Industries, with ILO technical and financial support. The pilot placed 21 students with eight employers and helped inform the development of the national policy.
Developed through consultation with government, employers’ and workers’ representatives, training providers and other stakeholders, the policy supports the Tonga Strategic Development Framework 2035 and its ambition for a skilled, productive and resilient workforce.
The ILO provided technical and advisory support throughout the policy development process and remains committed to supporting its implementation in partnership with the Government and employers’ and workers’ organizations.