The National University of Samoa – Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuous Education in partnership with the Commonwealth of Learning celebrated a significant milestone today with the official conclusion of the NUS-COL Youth Training Initiative Project.
In her address at the certificate ceremony, Professor Silafau Sina Vaai, Acting NUS Vice Chancellor congratulated the youth graduates on their achievements, stating, “Malo le tauivi, malo ma le finau,” acknowledging their determination and hard work in completing the training programme.
The success of this transformative initiative was made possible by the generous funding and support from the Commonwealth of Learning (COL), reinforcing the importance of their longstanding partnership with NUS. This collaboration has facilitated a unique educational experience aimed at enhancing youth employability through the ‘Build4Skills’ project, which aligns seamlessly with the Government of Samoa’s vision for youth development.
The programme featured a series of Non-Formal Learning Short Courses delivered across Upolu and Savaii. Trainees acquired essential skills in disciplines such as Basic Maths, Basic Computing, Time Management, Transactional Communication, and Basic Plumbing. In addition, a similar presentation was conducted in Savaii earlier this week, where 70 graduates completed courses in Management and Leadership Skills, Basic Agriculture Skills, Sewing for Beginners, and Basic Carpentry.
In total, 159 youths have successfully completed the trainings, marking a significant advancement in Samoa’s efforts to empower our youth population for meaningful employment. Professor Vaai reiterated the critical role that young people play in the future of Samoan society, stating, “Youth are valuable members of our community, eager to participate in sustainable development.”
NUS remains steadfast in our mission to provide an enabling environment for youth education through diverse Continuing Education platforms, ensuring that Samoan youth are prepared to become leaders of tomorrow.
Professor Silafau also acknowledged our NUS collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development (MWCSD) in working towards increased job opportunities and promoting sustainable employment through skills development.
Reflecting on the recent CHOGM held last month, she also quoted the late Nelson Mandela: “Today’s youth will rule Tomorrow!” advocating quality education in empowering young people to become active and responsible citizens.
As the NUS COL Youth Training Initiative officially concludes, Professor Silafau extended her heartfelt gratitude to all our partners involved, including the COL, our resource trainers – the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Don Bosco, Samoa Business Hub and our Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuous Education, NUS Senate and all involved in the delivery of the courses.
She also acknowledged the ongoing efforts of Afioga Muagututia Professor Ioana Chan Mow, our NUS-COL’s Samoa Counterpart.
Overall, NUS wishes all our youth graduates the best as they embark on their new journeys in Continuing Education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
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
