ASAU, Samoa – Samoa’s Minister of Education, Sports, and Culture officially opened the Samoa Language and Culture Week on Monday at Asau College. This is the first time the week is dedicated to both language and cultural (fa’a-Samoa).
“Our language is meant to be spoken and lived, not just remembered,” he said.
The theme for this year’s commemoration is Living in the Language and Culture. The theme focuses on the use of Samoan traditions in daily life.
“Our language is more than words. It carries our history and identity,” said Seuula Ioane Tuā’au. “But language alone is not enough. Culture gives it meaning and ensures it is passed to future generations.”
The Samoa Language Commission and the Division of Culture, Arts, and Heritage collaborated to organise the event. Their efforts align with the Ministry’s broader objectives of integrating language and cultural education into schools and communities.
Community leaders and educators supported the initiative, citing concerns over language retention among younger generations.
“If we don’t actively teach and use our language, we risk losing more than just words—we risk losing our Culture,” said Seuula Ioane Tuā’au.
The week will feature activities focused on language learning, cultural storytelling, and traditional practices. Schools and villages across Samoa are expected to take part in discussions and performances showcasing Samoan customs and values.
“This is about ensuring our children grow up not just knowing the language, but understanding and practising the values embedded within it,” said Seuula Ioane Tuā’au.
The celebrations were held for two days in Savai’i and started in Upolu today (Wednesday), concluding on Friday at the Samoa Arts and Culture Centre at Malifa.
