Awareness – Page 2 – Kaongora Newsletter

Unlocking Tourism Career Opportunities for Senior Secondary Students

October 31, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) conducted a career talk program to four senior secondary schools in South Tarawa, King George V & EBS, Sacred Heart High School, Saint Louis High School and William Goward Memorial College.

There are seven senior secondary schools in total, however only four schools granted our request, the remaining three could not be visited due to their busy schedule, with preparations before the South Pacific Form Seven Examination.

The primary objective was to introduce students to the world of tourism and the number of career opportunities it offers as they prepare for their university journeys.

The program placed a strong emphasis on the significance of tourism as both an industry and a field of study. It covered various areas within the sector, including hospitality, travel management, ecotourism, and cultural preservation, providing students with a comprehensive overview of the diverse opportunities within the tourism industry.

One of the teachers at Saint Louis High School who also attended the career talk said that he found this program very useful for the students as it will help them recognize how important tourism is and the number of opportunities available in this industry.

TAK acknowledges the ongoing support to all faith-based school principals in endorsing TAK’s tourism career talk outreach.

Tourism Authority of Kiribati Leads Betio Clean-Up in Preparation for WWII 80th Anniversary

September 19, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

In a proactive effort to preserve its pristine natural beauty and pay homage to the historical significance of World War II, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) in partnership with U.S Embassy, Suva, Betio Town Council and Betio Youth Groups conducted a one-day clean-up at Red Beach 1 & 2 at Betio on Saturday 16 September 2023.

This initiative underscores Kiribati’s commitment to environmental sustainability and honouring its past. It was also part of TAK’s preparation for the upcoming 80th-anniversary commemoration of WWI in November 2023.

Representing the U.S. Embassy, Suva at the clean-up was a group of United States Marines currently in Betio to undertake maintenance on the U.S WWll Memorial Monument.

Reeti Onorio, Deputy CEO of the Tourism Authority of Kiribati, shared her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “This clean-up is not only about preserving our environment but also a chance to reflect on our history. Kiribati played a crucial role in World War II, and we want to ensure that the sites and surroundings where these events occurred are respected and preserved. We invite everyone to join us in such meaningful endeavor in the future.”

In line with its commitment to sustainable tourism, TAK is actively engaged in promoting environmental conservation and responsible tourism practices. This clean-up initiative serves as a testament to TAK’s dedication to preserving Kiribati’s natural assets for generations to come.

Kiritimati Island hosts Cleaning, Beautification, Gardening, & Sanitation Competition

July 31, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

Kiritimati Island, also known as Christmas Island, witnessed a spectacular showcase of community spirit and environmental stewardship as it hosted the inaugural Cleaning, Beautification, Gardening, and Sanitation Competition. This event was organized by the Ministry of Environment, Lands & Agriculture Development (MELAD) through the Agriculture & Livestock Division, and the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) played a pivotal role as part of the organizing committee. The competition took place in conjunction with the grand celebrations of the 44th National Day, signifying the island’s commitment to becoming the “New Paradise.”

The primary objective of the competition was to foster a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Kiritimati Island while advancing its aspiration of becoming a true “New Paradise” for its residents and visitors alike. The organizing committee, comprised of the Wildlife Conservation Unit, the Ministry of Line & Phoenix Islands Development, and the EU-funded Water & Sanitation project, worked tirelessly to ensure the success of this community-driven initiative.

Participants from 19 households across three villages – Banana, Tabakeauea, and Ronton – participated in the competition, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact on their local environment. The competition witnessed the participation of various individuals and groups, each showcasing their innovative approaches to cleanliness, beautification, gardening, and sanitation.

The competition was supported by generous donations from the government-owned petroleum company, Kiribati Oil Limited (KOIL), and four privately-owned hotels in Kiritimati, namely Little Flower Guesthouse, Sunset Horizon Fishing Lodge, Lagoon View Resort, and Tekabaia Lodge. The gracious contributions of Mum’s Kitchen and the 44th National Day mother-committee also played a significant role in making the event a success.

The Cleaning, Beautification, Gardening, and Sanitation Competition served as a testament to the unity and dedication of the Kiritimati Island community in preserving its natural beauty and promoting a clean and healthy environment. TAK extends its appreciation to all the participants, donors, and organizing committee members for their unwavering support and commitment to the cause.

As the island continues to progress towards its environmental and developmental goals, TAK is dedicated to supporting and promoting similar initiatives that contribute to the well-being of the local community and the preservation of Kiritimati Island’s charm.

Clean Oceans and Beaches Essential for World Class Surfing

July 31, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

The pristine white sandy beaches of Kiritimati Island will hold a special place in the hearts of surfers as their cherished playground if they are care for. This was emphasized by Mr. Keone Downing, Pro-Surfer and Outbound Exchange Fellow from the East West Center when delivering training for the Island’s youths his one-week stay in Kiritimati Islands.

In addition to imparting surfing skills to the young surf enthusiasts, Mr. Downing encouraged them to adopt a noble habit – beach cleaning. His inspiring words, “Pick one trash before you surf and pick another one when you’re done surfing,” resonated deeply with the young surfers. The message was simple yet impactful – if each surfer commits to this practice, their cherished playground, the ocean, will always remain clean and free from debris washed down from the beaches.

Although Mr. Downing’s stay concluded on the 19th of July, the local surfers conducted their own beach clean-up activity on Thursday, 27th July, attracting new participants to join in the cause.

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) supports and recognizes these proactive cleaning initiatives, particularly by the young people. In this spirit of environmental stewardship, they were also invited to participate in the Ronton beach clean-up that was held on Saturday, 29th July 2023.

As the next generation of surfers emerges on Kiritimati Island, their dedication to beach cleaning paves the way for a brighter, cleaner future, where both the ocean and the shore remain pristine for the enjoyment of locals and travellers alike.

TAK conducts school tourism awareness program

April 3, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) commenced its Tourism Awareness program to all Year 6 Primary Schools on South Tarawa and Betio from 24th March 2023.

This is TAK’s annual program conducted by staff of the Training and Development Division with the aim of educating students about the Tourism Industry and its contribution to the Kiribati economy and the people’s livelihood.

Now that Tourism is part of Year 6 syllabus, TAK ensures that the program included in the presentation relates to the context of Year 6 syllabus extracted from the Curriculum Development Unit of the Ministry of Education (MoE).

The 7 schools visited includes Aratokotoko Primary School, Bareaumai, Sunrise, Tebontemwaneaba, Bikenibeu West, War Memorial, and Abaunamaou.

TAK is grateful to the Ministry of Education (MoE) for endorsing this program and looks forward reaching out to all primary schools across the country.

Tourism potential for Tabiteuea South Island

February 28, 2023 by Taare Rikiai

Located South of Kiribati’s capital Tarawa, Tabiteuea South is an island shrouded in myths and legends, some which date back to the creation of the island. One such myth is the story of Teueanikai (a tree), which legend has it that the branches of the Teueanikai gave way to the formation of the island of Tabiteuea.

Today, the island is divided into two, Tabiteuea Meang (North) and Tabiteuea Maiaki (South). History has it that a bloody massacre at the shores of Tewai village was initiated by the people of the North in attempt to convert the people of Tab South to Christianity. This battle site is today called Buruburu terara which in English translates to bloodshed.

In a quest to learn more about the island’s intriguing history, Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) Assistant Tourism Officer Garstang Bitauea joined a constituency visit delegation to Tabiteuea South led by the Minister for Tourism, Commerce, Industry & Cooperatives (MTCIC), Honourable Booti Nauan.

During the island tour, Mr. Bitauea took the opportunity to undertake tourism awareness across all villages on the island, highlighting the benefits of tourism, and the role of TAK. The program also included a guided tour of all historical sites led by the Unimwane (elderly men) group called Teueanikai. These historical sites were plotted and recorded and will be updated in the island visitor map.

Mr. Bitauea also conducted the Tourism Business Inventory Survey on the island’s 2 accommodation providers, Santo Betero Parish Hotel and Tab-South Island Council Guesthouse. Information gathered will be shared as visitor information and for used for destination promotion.

TAK recognises that there is potential for Tab South to incorporate the island’s myths and legends through storytelling and historical site preservation into their destination product mix. Equally important will be the engagement of the islanders to actively participate in cultural and heritage preservation.

Tourism Restart Training delivered in Maiana Island

November 30, 2022 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) conducted a five-days tourism restart program training to all tourism businesses in Maiana on the 9 – 15 November 2022. This was held at the Island Council Guesthouse in Tebwangetua.

The five days training was attended by representatives from the local accommodation provider and tourism communities.

Conducted by Tourism Officer Ms. Monika Rikita, the training included Tourism and Hospitality for the new normal, Revenue management and Tourism Business Fundamental.

Six modules of the tourism and hospitality safety protocol training focused on the necessity for the tourism businesses to protect employees and travellers from COVID-19 by adhering to set protocols developed by TAK.

The tourism business fundamental training focused on tourism business concepts and services and the role that marketing and human resources capacity development plays in strengthening community-based tourism business initiatives. These also included ecotourism revenue management training which focused on sustainability practices, and revenue management.

TAK is confident that trainings provided in Maiana will assist the island community as they prepare to welcome back travellers to the island.

This program was supported by the Kiribati LDCF-1, funded by the Global Environmental Facilities, and implemented under the Ministry of Environment Lands and Agricultural Development through the Environment and Conservation Division.

COVID-19 safety protocols training in South Tarawa

October 2, 2022 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) conducted Covid-19 Safety Protocols Training for the Betio Lodge, Mary’s Motel, and Eniita Airport Lodge from 15 – 24 September 2022.

The 2-days per property training was attended by a total of 17 staffs across the 3 properties, most of whom are front-line staff.

The training focuses on health, safety and hygiene in the workplace and participants are certified as ambassadors of the COVID-19 safety protocols.

Property General Managers applauded TAK for its support to tourism SMEs to encourage and promote a safe, smart, and sustainable tourism restart in Kiribati.

TAK will continue to work with all accommodation providers to ensure that they are compliant to the basic COVID-19 safety requirements and will provide further support where needed.

Nonouti island is ready to welcome travellers

October 2, 2022 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) conducted a four-day Tourism Restart Program training to all tourism businesses in Nonouti island from 23 – 28 September 2022.

The trainings included Tourism and Hospitality for the new normal, Tourism Business Fundamental and Revenue Management, delivered by Tourism Officer Training, Ms. Monika Rikita.

The Tourism Business Fundamental covered recommendations for revamping business concepts and services offered through marketing and human resources capacity development programs. The Revenue Management training included best practices for managing revenue effectively as well as revenue forecast.

The COVID-19 safety protocol training highlighted the need for tourism business operators to protect its employees and guests from the threat of the virus through a pre-determined set of safety procedures set by the Ministry of Health & Medical Services (MHMS).

A total of eleven (11) participants from different organizations and communities participated in the training. Seven (7) of them were fishing guides, one (1) tour guide, one (1) from Nonouti Island guest house, one (1) from Catholic Parish and one (1) from Abamakoro Islet.

Since border reopening, TAK is encouraging all participants to apply what they have learnt from the training for their guests and employee safety.

TAK continues schools outreach program

September 30, 2022 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) continued its school outreach program in September by a visit to Year nine students in all government and faith-based schools in South Tarawa and Betio from 07 – 22 September 2022.

This annual outreach program aims to provide students with a better understanding of tourism sector, its benefits, in particular its contribution to the Kiribati economy through employment and business opportunities.

TAK’s annual outreach to year 9 students also compliments the Ministry of Education’s (MoE) inclusion of tourism studies in the school’s Kiribati Community Studies class.

Saint Louise teacher Ioane Keebwa commented that “such an outreach program is crucial for students at this level to gain a better understanding of tourism and its potential for Kiribati’.

TAK acknowledges the ongoing support of MoE and to all faith-based schools in endorsing TAK’s tourism outreach.

Tourism Authority Kiribati