A new initiative has been launched under the Samoa–Australia Tautua Partnership, providing targeted support to the implementation of the Health and Physical Education (HPE) Curriculum across schools in Upolu and Savaii. This initiative seeks to address the alarming rise of childhood obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Samoa’s youth.
With childhood obesity rates in Samoa having more than doubled from 16% in 2015 to 36% in 2020, and with children as young as six showing signs of prediabetes and high blood pressure, the project aims to instil lifelong healthy habits in Samoan children aged 5 to 18. The intervention aligns with Samoa’s national development and health priorities and directly supports key outcomes under the Tautua Program, including improved public health, strengthened education outcomes, and a reduction in NCD prevalence.
The two main activities of the project include:
• Distribution of Health and Physical Education resources to selected schools, equipping teachers and students with the tools to engage in active living and healthy behaviours.
• Video documentation of success stories from participating schools, to be broadcast via social and traditional media to promote awareness, engagement, and motivation across the wider community.
Seven schools across Upolu and Savai’i took part in the pilot phase, including both primary and secondary schools, as well as inclusive education provider Loto Taumafai. The Ministry of Education and Culture, Ministry of Health, and the newly established Ministry for Sports and Recreation are key collaborators in the effort.
Australian High Commissioner to Samoa, His Excellency Will Robinson, said:
“Australia is proud to partner with Samoa on a program that not only addresses a pressing public health issue but also empowers children and educators to take charge of their well-being. Through Tautua, we are committed to working with Samoa to build a healthier, more inclusive future.”
Samoan Minister for Education and Culture, Hon. Seuula Ioane, added:
“This initiative reinforces the value of Health and Physical Education in our national curriculum. Our children deserve every opportunity to grow up healthy, strong, and ready to learn. This partnership helps create the conditions for exactly that.”
In alignment with the Pathway for the Development of Samoa (PDS), this project contributes directly to:
• Increased life expectancy through reduced rates of NCDs,
• Enhanced student engagement and learning through improved physical and mental well-being,
• Greater inclusion and participation of all students, including those with disabilities.
The HPE initiative is a practical, people-centered step in tackling one of Samoa’s most critical public health challenges. With wide-ranging support from school communities and government agencies, the program demonstrates the strength and flexibility of the Tautua Partnership in responding to Samoa’s evolving needs.
About the Author
Rosemary Tone is the Communications and Public Diplomacy Manager for the Tautua Human Development for All Program, a bilateral partnership between the Governments of Samoa and Australia. Based in Apia, she leads public engagement on programs supporting inclusive development in education, health, gender equality, disability inclusion, and social protection.
Media Contact:
Rosemary Tone – Communications and Public Diplomacy Manager
Tautua Human Development for All Program
