Apia, Samoa – Tuesday, 9th July 2024
The National University of Samoa (NUS) and the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen their partnership in enhancing youth learning experiences through continuing education approaches. The NUS Youth Project, funded by COL, aims to develop the employability skills, attitudes, and values necessary for a sustainable future among 150 selected youths aged 15-24 years.
This project focuses on building transferable skills and attributes, aligning with NUS’s vision to provide quality education and training that prepares students for the workforce. It is closely linked to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and the “Build4Skills” concept, leveraging TVET for employment, decent work, and lifelong learning. Additionally, it aligns with the Samoa National Action Plan on Youth Employment, aiming to increase youth jobs, promote pathways to sustainable employment, and ensure a trained talent pipeline for the private sector and economy.
The agreement provides continuing education pathways, including certificate programs, non-formal learning courses, tailored formal micro-credentials, and a diploma in Youth Development. The program targets youth from both public and private sectors, as well as unemployed youth in rural communities.
“We are excited to partner with COL on this project,” said Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa, Vice-Chancellor and President of the National University of Samoa. “Through this collaborative effort, we aim to equip our young Samoan leaders with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to succeed in the workforce, while promoting a culture of lifelong learning and continuous skill development.”
“The Commonwealth of Learning is committed to supporting the development of youth in Samoa,” said Dr. Satya Brink, Director General of COL. “We are pleased to support this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the lives of young people in Samoa.”
The project will be delivered by the Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuing Education at NUS, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, National Youth Council, and Samoa Umbrella of NGOs to engage committed youths from communities as well as the private and public sectors.
Youth consultations for Upolu and Savaii will commence from the 16th to the 18th of July 2024, involving representatives from each of the 51 District Development Committees to ensure the project’s sustainability and youth engagement.
For more information, please contact:
Leilani Smith, Marketing and Communications Officer, NUS, Samoa
Tel. +685: 20072 ext. 283
E: [email protected]
www.nus.edu.ws
