Minister rejects reports

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 17 January 2016, 12:00AM

The Minister of Education, Sports and Culture, Magele Mauiliu Magele, has denied reports that he is not contesting the upcoming General Elections. 

In doing so, the M.P. for Fa’asaleleaga No.1 confirmed his candidacy.

His decision means he will run against another sitting M.P. of the Human Rights Protection Party (H.R.P.P), Associate Minister of the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, Gatoloaifaana Amataga Gidlow. 

Win or lose, Magele said he has other plans. 

“When I retired from the N.U.S., I had planned to plant some taro and banana,” Magele told the Sunday Samoan. 

“But God had a different plan for me then and I still have that in mind, to do my plantation. I had put aside what I wanted and followed what God wanted me to do but if I don’t return, I still have that plan.”

Magele said the idea of returning to the education sector after his political career does not look attractive at this stage.

 “I’d rather go back and plant some taro,” he said.

He also has other plans. He expressed interest in being involved in a community center to be piloted at Mataevave College and Vaimauga College yet to be implemented. 

He explained the centers will offer training for youths and adults not only on different trades but also on skills like sewing and weaving the ie Samoa.

Classes will be held in the evening and the Samoa Qualifications Authority will accredit the qualifications. 

 “It focuses on creating your own businesses rather than being an employee,” said Magele. 

“From there, people can talk to the bank about planning their own business that they can run from their homes and villages.” The center at Mataevave has already been approved by Cabinet.  Meanwhile, having entered Parliament after his first attempt and being appointed a Cabinet Minister in his first term, Magele said he has enjoyed the journey. 

“Its been very challenging and I feel quite tired after those years,” he said. 

“It feels like I’m still a C.E.O.”

Magele said he is conscious of micromanaging the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture. 

“But if I don’t do that, nothing moves,” he added.  

So what was the highlight of this term?

Magele said he doesn’t have any particular favourites. 

He said everyday is a challenge which also comes with many blessings.

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 17 January 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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