AVELE COLLEGE MARKS A CENTURY OF EXCELLENCE: CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF LEGACY
Avele College students marching this morning. (Photo by Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure Samoa)
In a jubilant gathering filled with nostalgia and gratitude, Avele College, Samoa's venerable institution of learning, commemorated a monumental milestone - its 100th anniversary. The Avele College compound became a bustling hub as hundreds of students, alumni from near and far, government dignitaries, and esteemed guests congregated on Tuesday evening to partake in the official opening ceremony.
Head of State Tuimalealiifano Va'aleto'a Sualauvi II delivered poignant remarks, reminding all present of the profound significance of this occasion. He underscored the importance of humility and gratitude, urging attendees to remember the role of God in their achievements. "Shall no one with strength be proud of his strength, shall no one with wisdom be proud of his wisdom, but be proud that it is from God and glory be to God," he emphasized, setting a spiritual tone for the festivities.
Reflecting on his personal connection to the college, the Head of State shared his lifelong desire to attend Avele College, a testament to the institution's enduring influence on the Samoan community. His presence, alongside other government leaders, added a dignified aura to the celebration.
Chairman of the Avele College Old Pupils Association (A.C.O.P.A.), Afamasaga Leiataua Faleata, echoed sentiments of gratitude and pride on behalf of all alumni. He hailed Avele College as a symbol of God's love and faithfulness, encapsulating a century of educational excellence and community impact.
As the celebrations unfolded, participants reminisced about Avele College's rich history, from its humble beginnings to its present stature as a beacon of quality education in Samoa. The college's commitment to nurturing knowledge, skills, and critical thinking has empowered generations of students, shaping their futures and enriching Samoan society.
The commemoration also highlighted Avele College's pivotal role in fostering regional solidarity. Since 1950, the college has welcomed students from across the Pacific, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie that transcends geographical boundaries. Today, as alumni from around the globe converge in Samoa, Avele College stands as a testament to the power of education in fostering global citizenship and mutual understanding.
The presence of distinguished guests, including the Cook Islands King's Representative, Sir Tom Masters, and Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa, underscored the significance of Avele College's centennial celebration. Their participation symbolized the enduring bonds between Avele College and Samoa's leadership, reaffirming the college's status as a cherished national institution.
As festivities continue with a parade scheduled for Wednesday, Avele College's centennial celebration serves as a poignant reminder of the institution's enduring legacy. From its humble origins to its current standing as a pillar of educational excellence, Avele College has remained steadfast in its commitment to shaping the minds and futures of generations of Samoans. As the celebrations unfold, Avele College looks forward to the next century with optimism, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to its mission of excellence in education.