Milestone celebrated at village school

By Deidre Fanene 17 December 2016, 12:00AM

It’s no secret that urban schools are given much of the spotlight leaving out the rural schools in the dust.

But according to Malama Su’a Malaesilia, the Principal of Savaia and Tafagamanu Primary School, times are slowly changing.

With a brand new school building after the old one was damaged by Cyclone Evans, Malama says it’s good to see the spotlight falling onto village schools for a change.

“Right now I am just really happy,” she told the Village Voice.

“I want to thank the Lord for this great milestone for my village. I want to also say thank you to the government of Australia, China and Samoa for what they have given to this school.

“This great achievement brings joy to many who live in this area.”

Malama explains that there was a real need for a new school building and the government heard that cry for help.

“When cyclone Evans hit, many of the rooms were destroyed,” she said.

“It affected the children but the government stepped in with a plan to help us out. Now we are here and it’s great.

“I have been a principal at this school for nine years.”

Asked about thoughts on all the attention urban schools get, Malama replied by saying that there is more need in the rural schools.

“Schools in town areas go through many great developments and are given a lot more attention,” she said.

“It’s good to see that schools in the rural areas are starting to get some attention. Other than that, there are many similarities between schools in urban and rural areas.

“The only thing that’s lacking in rural schools is technology. We really need computers, laptops and other up-to date resources that will assist with the learning of the students.

“The students can use the computers to do some research or write up assignments for their school.”

But with a brand new development in the school, Malama assures everyone that the work will not go in vain.

“With our new school building, we are surely going to go through the upcoming year with a new mindset,” she said.

“We are going to make the most of this new development and make sure that great outcomes come from the generosity of those who helped us.

“We are proud of what’s given to us and we will make sure that the work isn’t done in vain.”

By Deidre Fanene 17 December 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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