The Tubu Program is currently conducting consultations across Vanuatu to strengthen the country’s capacity in Inclusive Education.

Tubu is led by the Institute of Education at the University of the South Pacific (USP) and supported by the Government of New Zealand.
It is a long-term initiative aimed at helping school leaders and teachers work together to build an inclusive education system that supports all children, regardless of their learning level or needs.

The program operates across five Pacific countries — Vanuatu, Fiji, Cook Islands, Tonga, and Niue — identifying challenges and barriers that prevent fair and quality education access for every child.

Last year, Tubu began working closely with Ministries of Education to carry out school visits and assessments.
Now in Vanuatu, the team has consulted with more than 15 schools.

According to Anna Roumanu, In-Country Lead for the Cook Islands, teachers have highlighted the need for more resources and training.

“What we’ve been able to do through this research is collect evidence that supports strategies to better assist teachers. Parents, on the other hand, want stronger school-to-home relationships,” she said.

From Vanuatu’s Ministry of Education and Training (MoET), Sylvie Boeson said the work of Tubu aligns directly with the country’s Inclusive Education Policy.

“If there is support coming from partners to help schools strengthen inclusion, it contributes greatly to our education goals,” she added.

Parents also took part in the consultations, calling for a fair education system for all Vanuatu children.
Parent Tamedal Massing said:

“Teachers today must have the passion and instinct to teach — like a parent caring for their children.”

Tubu began its work last year and, after completing its consultations in Vanuatu, the team will move on to Niue, their final country visit.