The village of Satalo in the Falealili district of Upolu in Samoa, marked the opening of their newly reconstructed Primary School.
The new school facilities include eight classrooms, an office, library, conference room, and storage room, bathroom facilities for school children, water fountain, and desks and chairs for students and teachers.
The new building was funded through a grant of $347,280.00 Tala under Japan’s Grassroots and Human Security Project as well as contributions from the village and school committee of Satalo.
Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi in his address mentioned the importance of good school facilities in the overall education of Samoa’s children.
“We often hear that what is taught in the classroom is the most important part of schooling, but we should also remember that good school facilities are equally as important for the development and education of our children.
“We are all encouraged by a good, clean atmosphere in our work place so we expect the same for our children. These facilities rival those to be found in Apia, and you should be proud of your new school and take good care of these facilities."
“I urge all parents and teachers to encourage students to take up agriculture, because that is where Samoa’s future lies.
“I also encourage the teaching of sports education at this early stage in our children’s learning programs. The developed nations who do so well at the international level are successful because children are taught from a young age about sporting excellence, nutrition, discipline and especially the rules and regulations of every sport. By the time they reach their prime years, they have years of learning and understanding under their belt and they go on to achieve many feats of sporting glory.”
He also urged the students to enrol in important programs like agriculture which would help Samoa achieve better productivity.
“We have enough lawyers. We have enough people sitting in offices. What we need are more skilled, knowledgeable people to take us in to the future and ensure Samoa’s agriculture sector grows and strengthens our economy.
“There are scholarships and spaces available at our local universities for you to pursue these dreams and contribute to your family, your community and your country.”
Japan’s Ambassador to Samoa, HE Tuimaugaoalii Kazumasa Shibuta, congratulated the school committee and people of Satalo.
“Education is vital in the development of a nation, and we are happy to support projects like these.
“A child is often likened to a tree in Japan. When you plant a seed, you must care for the plant by giving it water, fertilizer, and sometimes when it’s too hot, you must provide shade. After fostering a plant, you would cultivate sweet fruits from a tree.
“So I would like to request parents, teachers, and village community to bring up your children with the warmest care in the school,” said Tuimaugaoalii.
The Japanese Grassroots and Human Security Project was introduced 25 years ago and more than 150 projects have been successfully completed, benefitting public schools and community organisations.