The Samoa Qualifications Authority (SQA) officially launched the Samoa Qualifications Framework (SQF) on Friday 10 April 2026 at Taumeasina Island Resort.
The SQF is a key national tool that ensures education and training in Samoa are relevant, fit-for-purpose, and aligned with the needs of the labour market and national development. The SQF supports the development of a skilled workforce and contributes to the social and economic wellbeing of people, communities, and villages across Samoa.
The SQF also gives confidence to employers, educators, and decision-makers that qualifications awarded in Samoa meet strong quality standards and produce graduates who are ready for work.
The SQF is a translation tool that allows for international comparisons with other national systems in the Pacific region, including New Zealand and Australia. This supports regional and international standards and best practices in quality assurance.
The SQF Third Edition was reviewed in 2024, marking the first major update since 2012. Key features include:
- A 10-level qualification framework that shows clear pathways from certificates to advanced qualifications.
- A stronger focus on the framework and policy guidelines for education providers.
- Reduced emphasis on administrative processes for registering qualifications.
As learners progress through the levels, the complexity of their learning outcomes increases, reflecting higher levels of knowledge, skills, and applied abilities.
For the first time the SQF Third Edition has been translated into Samoan (Faatomofolau o Tusi Pasi ma Faailoga Taualoa a Samoa), reflecting the richness and essence of our language and cultural identity. This translation was made possible by the Samoan Language Commission.
This event also celebrated other important publications:
- Referencing Report – confirms alignment between the Samoa Qualifications Framework and the Pacific Qualifications Framework.
- Statistical Bulletin 2024 – provides data on student enrolment, retention, completion, and training.
- Tracer Study Report (2018-2020) – tracks graduate outcomes and employment pathways.
The SQA is part of a regional project comparing national qualifications frameworks with the Pacific Qualifications Framework. This project is funded by the Government of New Zealand in partnership with the Pacific Community (SPC). This project will compare national frameworks, including Samoa, with the Pacific Qualifications Framework and the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework.
- Phase One has been completed with Samoa’s qualifications framework successfully referenced against regional standards.
- Phase Two is now underway and focuses on strengthening data systems and qualifications records. This phase is expected to be completed by 2028.
The Tracer Study Report compiles information about the academic programs offered by PSET providers and related qualifications that shape graduates’ career paths. The Statistical Bulletin provides valuable data about PSET providers, including student recruitment, student retention, dropout rates, and graduation outcomes. It also includes information on the qualifications of trainers and instructors and training activities approved by the authorities.
The Honourable Minister of Education and Culture, le Afioga Aiono Alec Ekeroma acknowledged the significant work of SQA, its staff, Board of Directors and stakeholders in completing the SQF review and achieving these milestones.
He also thanked all partners and participants for their continued support and for contributing to a successful launch.
Samoa Qualifications Authority press release issued on 10 April 2026.
