Driven by a passion for education and a desire to serve their community, two Mangaia teenagers are among the first trainees at the newly launched Cook Islands Teacher Development Centre.

Dammy Toko and Lamais Seramina Roimata-Ki-Te-Rangi Julian of Mangaia are among the first cohort of trainees at the Cook Islands Teacher Development Centre.

The young women joined the Centre, which was launched this Thursday, driven by a passion to return to their community and make a difference through education. Their passion is shared by the Centre’s goal of addressing teacher shortages and improving educational quality across the nation.

They are among 16 aspiring teachers who will undertake the Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) and the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary or Secondary), provided by New Zealand’s University of Waikato.

Dammy, 19, who graduated from Mangaia School in 2023, is excited to embark on her journey at the Teacher Development Centre.

Members of the first cohort of teacher trainees for the newly opened teachers training centre. 25013012, 25013014, 25013015

“I feel happy, excited. My goal is to finish (the degree),” she shares, expressing her enthusiasm for the training ahead.

Dammy’s path to teaching was inspired by her deep love for children.

She recalled how, during her studies, seeing younger children sparked a strong desire to become a teacher.

“What inspired me to join this training is my love and passion for kids,” she says.

Despite the challenges of living on Mangaia, an outer island 126 miles from Rarotonga, Dammy is determined to bring her skills back home once she completes her training.

“My goal is to go back to Mangaia and serve my people,” she shares.

Members of the first cohort of teacher trainees for the newly opened teachers training centre. 25013012, 25013014, 25013015

Prior to joining the Centre, Dammy completed a Level 3 Certificate in Early Childhood Care through University of the South Pacific, further nurturing her passion for education.

Lamais, 18, has been inspired to teach by her parents, both of whom are educators.

Having recently completed her studies at Tereora College, Lamais is eager to continue the legacy of teaching in her family.

“Both my parents are teachers. They were also in training college, and then when they graduated, they started teaching here in Tereora,” she explains.

Her parents’ journey led them to settle in Mangaia, where they continue to teach.

Members of the first cohort of teacher trainees for the newly opened teachers training centre. 25013012, 25013014, 25013015

Lamais is grateful for the opportunity to follow in their footsteps, saying, “They were my inspiration in becoming a teacher.”

During her time at Tereora College, Lamais excelled, winning several awards. She took top honours in Maori, was named the best outer island student, and received the Tangata Tiratiratu (honesty) trophy last year.

“I’m very grateful that I was accepted, and very grateful again for this opportunity,” says Lamais, expressing her excitement to begin this new chapter.

“I can’t wait for what they’re going to show us, what they’re going to give us.”

Staff or trainers of the newly opened teachers training centre. 25013018.

The opening of the Teacher Development Centre on Thursday marked an important milestone in addressing the Cook Islands’ teacher shortage, according to the education leaders.

The Centre is designed to equip new educators with the skills and training necessary to elevate education standards in the country.

Secretary of Education, Owen Lewis, spoke passionately about the importance of investing in education, noting that strong education systems lay the foundation for future leaders and professionals.

Minister for Education, Vaine “Mac” Mokoroa and Education Secretary Owen Lewis officially open the doors of the new training centre. 25013009

“By investing in our teachers, we are investing in the future workforce, innovation, and national progress,” Lewis stated in his speech at the Centre’s official opening.

Lewis emphasised the need for a collective effort in raising educational standards and supporting the nation’s educators.

“Together, we will inspire new members of our leaders and leaders. And together, we will ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential, and cannot have to leave these shores to achieve that. In fact, let’s bring them back to achieve today’s field.

“We must foster an environment where parents, caregivers, and a wider society, support and guide and adapt to each other’s needs. 

“Our education thrives when schools and communities live together. And we encourage everyone to take part in this movement towards excellence. Strong education systems create strong passions.”

Lewis’ sentiments align with the Centre’s mission to provide high-quality training that helps teachers foster an environment where schools and communities thrive together.

The first cohort of trainees, which includes Dammy and Lamais, consists of 16 members, each bringing their own unique aspirations and backgrounds.

The Centre’s goal is not only to address the challenges posed by the shortage of qualified teachers but also to ensure that educators are well-equipped to inspire and shape the future of the Cook Islands.

“Together, we have accomplished the head office of development, our schools, our teachers, all our heads of staff, and our ancestors. We are united in our desire to provide the best for our children, despite some challenges in our lives,” Lewis added.

“This is a time of renewal, a refreshment of our organisation, a refreshment of our teaching practises, refreshment of our community, our leadership, and performance. 

“Let’s unite in this together. Together, we will rise the standard of innovation in the Cook Islands.”

The Cook Islands Teacher Development Centre is headed by former principal of Tereora College, Mona Ngaau.