Date: 05 Mar 2025
The Balance of Power (BOP) program, in partnership with Tonga Public Service Commission (PSC), is strengthening leadership in Tonga’s public service through its Adaptive Leadership Training Program. This program helps senior government officials develop leadership skills to improve governance, service delivery and inclusive decision-making.
Now delivering the first module with the second cohort of participants, the training builds on the success of the first pilot in 2024. It brings together 22 senior managers from eight government agencies, including 15 women and seven men. Although women make up 62% of the public service, they hold only 30% of CEO positions. This training aims to reduce that gap by giving both men and women the skills they need to lead effectively.
The training is led by local experts ‘Ofa Guttenbeil Likiliki and Reverend Dr. ‘Ungatea Fonua Kata. It focuses on practical leadership strategies, teaching participants how to handle complex challenges, use leadership tools in real-life situations and promote shared decision-making.
Salome ‘Akau’ola, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Tonga Public Service Commission, said she plans to apply what she has learned in her team and encourage more staff to take part in future training sessions.
“I’ve attended many leadership programs, but this one stands out because it deals with real-world challenges. Many leadership problems don’t have a single solution. This program has helped me learn how to adapt and find new ways to solve problems while improving people skills,” Ms. ‘Akau’ola said.
For Kalolaine Katoa Mafi, Director of the Human Resource Division at the Ministry of Education, the training provided valuable leadership tools.
“Leadership isn’t just about having a title, it’s about acting. The strategies I learned will help me handle workplace challenges more effectively. I’ve also realised the importance of stepping back, observing and evaluating situations before acting,” Ms. Mafi said.
The partnership between BOP and PSC aims to build strong leadership in Tonga’s public sector, by training both men and women together, the program encourages teamwork and broadens perspectives on governance.
Mesuilame Vea, Chief Economist at the Prime Minister’s Office – National Planning, found the program especially useful.
“I’ve learned a lot, especially new leadership strategies. Some of these I was already using without realising it and now I understand how to apply them more effectively,” Mr. Vea said.
The second and third modules for this second cohort of public servants will be delivered in April and June this year. Insights from both this group and the previous cohort, which completed training in 2023, will inform future programs. A third cohort is scheduled for the second half of the year.
By investing in leadership development, the program aims to contribute to better governance, more efficient service delivery and a more inclusive leadership culture that reflects the needs and aspirations of all public servants.
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