SAMOA COLLEGE CELEBRATING 70 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

Alumni present at their march for the official Opening of Samoa Colleges 70th Anniversary (Photo: Lars Gustaf Bell/ Eyespy Radio Samoa)

This morning on December 11, 2023, Hon. Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio, Deputy Prime Minister, delivered a stirring speech commemorating the 70th anniversary of Samoa College. The occasion not only marked a significant milestone for the institution but also provided an opportunity to express gratitude to the Samoa College Old Pupils Association (SCOPA) for their enduring contribution to the school's development over the decades.

Hon. Tuala began by acknowledging the dedication of teachers and students to Samoa College's motto, "Atamai e tautua mo Samoa" ("wisdom to serve Samoa"), emphasising the institution's commitment to excellence in education. He fondly recalled his earlier address to the college celebrations in October, where he witnessed firsthand the passion that fuels the institution's success.

Reflecting on the historical significance of Samoa College's establishment in 1953, Hon. Tuala underscored its role as a pivotal step towards Samoa's independence. The introduction of secondary education was seen as essential for cultivating educated leaders capable of guiding the nation towards self-governance.

Seventy years later, the fruition of this vision was evident, with Samoa College alumni holding esteemed positions in government, business, academia, sports, and more. The speech emphasised the enduring legacy of Samoa College, living on through the achievements and contributions of its graduates to national and international arenas.

In the face of contemporary challenges such as climate change, disasters, and global competitions, Hon. Tuala emphasised the crucial role of education. An educated population, he argued, is essential for effective resource management and sustainability. In this context, he called for continued excellence at Samoa College, urging the institution to equip future leaders with the skills and knowledge to address these challenges.

Recognizing the role of public servants in Samoa's development, Hon. Tuala commended SCOPA for their effective management of the school. He assured ongoing government support aligned with current policy requirements.

The article concluded with Hon. Tuala expressed gratitude for the collective contributions to Samoa's growth and prosperity. As Samoa College celebrated its 70th anniversary, he extended heartfelt congratulations, envisioning the institution remaining a symbol of educational excellence for generations to come. The article closed with a warm wish: "Thank you all for your contributions to the growth and prosperity of Samoa. Happy 70th Anniversary. God bless!"