The Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (CIT) continues its strong commitment to promoting academic excellence and cultivating the next generation of industry leaders. We recently had the pleasure of acknowledging students who demonstrated outstanding achievement in tourism and hospitality subjects at the annual college prize-giving ceremonies across Rarotonga and Aitutaki. CIT values the critical link between education and the future success of our nation's key economic driver and celebrated the hard work of students from Tereora College, Titikaveka College, Nukutere College, and Araura College.

The talented individuals recognised represent the future professionals essential for maintaining the quality and authenticity of the Cook Islands visitor experience.

We proudly acknowledge the following students for their achievements in tourism and hospitality:

Nukutere College:
• Excellence in Hospitality: Christina Tekii
• Hospitality Awards: Tamainetutai Papatua, Tyler Emile, Joseph Tangaroa

Tereora College:
• Level 2 Excellence in Tourism: Tauira Raita
• Level 3 Excellence in Tourism: Aleida Tere
• Te Arata’a o te Pae Turoto Scholarship: Ellenoah Oti

Titikaveka College:
• Mana Tiaki Awards: Lathaniel Rau Atuatika

Araura College:
• Excellence in Tourism: Nikki Lloyd

A special highlight this year was the awarding of the Te Arata’a o te Pae Turoto Scholarship to Ellenoah Oti of Tereora College. This scholarship, formerly known as the Cook Islands Tourism Leadership Programme Scholarship, is vital for supporting high-potential students like Ellenoah, helping them step into future leadership roles within our sector.

CIT’s dedication to celebrating these students is a key action under our broader Workforce Development Project. The tourism sector is the engine of the Cook Islands economy, contributing around 70% of our GDP. By putting a spotlight on success in tourism and hospitality studies, we aim to inspire students to feel a real sense of pride and importance in choosing this career path.

This effort is essential for building a robust, skilled, and passionate workforce pipeline. CIT will continue its close working relationship with the Ministry of Education and the Cook Islands Tertiary Training Institute (CITTI) to ensure that tourism learning effectively prepares and encourages these young people to be the leaders of tomorrow.