Cabinet has approved the construction of three new schools in the country, two in Upolu and one in Savai’i.

This was confirmed by the Minister of Education, Sports and Culture, Loau Keneti Sio, during an interview with the Samoa Observer.

He said the two schools in Upolu include one primary school and a college.

Falelauniu, he added, would be an ideal site.

“We’ve noticed the increasing number of people who live in this area and the school nearby just can’t cater for many who migrate and occupy the area,” he said.

“But for now, the Ministry is still monitoring the area at Falelauniu and Tafaigata to see which one is the best to set up these schools.”

These two schools will serve the people at Falelauniu, Nu’u, Tafaigata, Vaitele Uta and Vaitele Fou.

Loau said the college in Savai’i will be built in Alataua-i-Sisifo.

“The college is for the students from Asau, Auala, Vaisala, Sataua, Papa Sataua, Falealupo, Tufutafoe, Neiafu and Falelima."

“So as I’ve mentioned earlier, the ministry is still looking at ways to improve the education system for both islands.”

Loau said a study by the Ministry of Education prompted the need to set up a second college in the district. 

“We’re looking at constructing the one college in Savai’i first and then move back to Upolu, so hopefully these two in Upolu will be next year.”

The new college will serve villages like Papa Sataua, Falealupo, Tufutafoe, Neiafu and Falelima.

A parent from Savai’i, Leoloaga Tupa’i, feels that Savai’i’s education system should receive the same attention as Upolu.

“The move by the ministry is a joy for many parents in the big island of Savai’i, especially to those at Alataua-i-Sisifo."

“What’s good for Savai’i is also good for Upolu and the truth is that Savai’i needs more schools at this level.”

Making sure all children should be in school is a must.

“We all want our children to have a better education, and I want to see more attention given to the education of the Savai’i children, just like they give to those in Upolu."

“There have been some changes, but Savai’i needs more of this because it will help keep the children in check and at the same time, give them an education."

“More and more colleges popping up in Savai’i is great because it takes the pressure off the parents to give their children an education.”

He believes that having more colleges in Savai’i will also stop unnecessary travelling.

“Upolu is really far to send our children to get an education so it’s good to have colleges in Savai’i."

“It was a hassle trying to send our children to Upolu back in those days."

“We would have to search for family members who will take care of the children while they schooled. It was a big problem for us."

“Times have changed here in Savai’i, but it’s for the betterment of the parents, children and the whole island.”