Nukutere College students will embark on a journey to represent the Cook Islands in Fiji for a groundbreaking Catholic Youth Leadership and Faith Formation programme next month.

This new initiative, conducted by Catholic Schools Youth Ministry International (CSYMI), invites leaders in Catholic education from across the South Pacific.

A total of 15 students, accompanied by three teachers and five parents from Nukutere College, will be attending and supporting the Catholic Leaders Training in Suva, Fiji.

They will participate in the Catholic Education Leadership Training from July 4 to July 6 of this year. The event is hosted by Marist Brothers High School.

“The event brings together leaders and emerging voices in Catholic education from across the South Pacific,” said Nukutere College acting principal Rauhina Tipuna.

The purpose of the school’s participation is to support the initiative through services and cultural participation.  

“Representing the Cook Islands with pride, their presence is part of a wider mission to deepen faith formation, support leadership development, and foster unity among Catholic schools in the region. Students will gain accreditation as youth leaders for evangelisation.”

According to Tipuna, the 15 students will be entrusted to share their conference experiences after they return.

They aim to run youth retreats and formation sessions for the younger students in the Catholic schools in Rarotonga.

“They are hoping to inspire other young people to grow in faith and leadership within their own communities.”

This initiative, facilitated by the Australian Catholic University and aligned with the Spiritus Program, represents a significant step in forming the next generation of Catholic leaders across Oceania.