Vaiala Beach School DonationSupports English Literacy in Si’umu
Alo Paopao collaboration delivers 28 boxes of reading resources to rural Samoa. (Photo: Supplied)
A shared commitment to education brought together passionate leaders this week as Vaiala
Beach School, founded by educational visionary Lorraine Williams, with CEO Kerrie Punivalu
and Principal Tala Su’a, proudly donated 28 boxes of reading resources to Si’umu Primary
School on the southern coast of Upolu.
“We are happy to support them with learning, and we get excited when we see them
reading books,” said Williams. “I love the fact that it went to Si’umu.”
The donation reflects a growing concern across Samoa about literacy support in rural
communities, where resources are limited and many students face barriers to learning in
English. This is the language used for national assessment.
The initiative was made possible through the coordination of Alo Paoapao Academy, a
grassroots organisation committed to strengthening local youth development in Si’umu.
Founded by Su’a Jay Ah Fook Schuster and Tutasi Schuster, Alo Paoapao Academy connects
village leaders, educators, and external partners to build long-term relationships in
academic support, sport inclusion, and youth leadership within the village.
“We want to do more than just be visible for them,” said the Schusters. “These kids have so
much potential.”
At the book handover, Principal Ianeta Ah Kiong expressed heartfelt gratitude and shared a
passionate plea.
“Our children are driven,” she said. “But we need the resources.”
She explained that while students begin school speaking Samoan, national exams are
conducted in English. This creates a significant barrier when classroom materials are limited,
and home support is stretched thin.
Why English Literacy Support Matters in Samoa
On paper, Samoa performs well in basic literacy. However, deeper indicators reveal real
challenges, especially when students must learn and be assessed in English.
Here’s what the data shows:
Adult literacy is high, with 99% of adults able to read and write in at least one
language, typically Samoan (UNESCO, 2020).
National exams are in English, even though most students enter school speaking
Samoan (Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture).
Boys are falling behind, with only 4 in 10 Year 6 boys proficient in numeracy,
compared to 6 in 10 girls (National University of Samoa, 2021).
Primary school funding is limited, with per-student investment sitting at roughly
8.97% of GDP per capita. This level of funding is often not enough to meet classroom
needs (UNESCO, CEIC).
These figures highlight the difference between basic literacy and the level of English-
language fluency needed to succeed in Samoa’s current education system.
Community Action and Collective Impact
Despite these challenges, schools, families, and local leaders are stepping up. Alo Paoapao
Academy is part of a new wave of development leadership. It brings together public schools,
private institutions like Vaiala Beach School, and community voices who understand the
unique needs of their own villages.
By building these connections, the Academy ensures that support reaches classrooms
directly, rather than stopping at national policy or international aid.
This week’s book donation is more than a kind gesture. It is a powerful example of what can
be achieved when communities work together. It reflects a growing movement across
Samoa, one that recognises every child’s right to a fair opportunity in learning, whether in
Samoan or English. It also honours the tireless efforts of those who work, often quietly and
with limited means, to make this possible.
“We all want the same thing, for our children to succeed,” said Principal Ianeta. “But we
can’t do it alone.”
Written by Alexandria (Sanka) Meredith, MCEI