The Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture (M.E.S.C.) has confirmed lesson plans and programmes for school children, which can be accessed on its website, TV1 and Government Channel television stations and the 2AP Radio Station. 

Details of the lesson plans and programmes were uploaded to the Ministry’s website on Tuesday.

The press release, which was approved by the M.E.S.C. Chief Executive Officer Afamasaga Dr Karoline Afamasaga-Fuatai, stated that the lesson plans and programmes will be delivered through the Ministry’s website, television (TV1 and the Government Channel) and the 2AP Radio Station. 

Parents have been asked by the Ministry to assist their children when the lesson plans and programmes are rolled out on the nominated communication platforms.

The online resources found on the M.E.S.C. website has material for early childhood education schools, primary schools and secondary schools.

“All on-line resources are linked to curriculum learning outcomes and are a continuation of strands that should be taught during this teaching period. It is recommended that parents support their children’s learning using the available resources,” the press release further stated.

As for those children who can see the lesson plans and programmes on television, the Ministry urged them to watch out for the “La Oso O Aoaoga Fou” program, as it will provide learning relevant at both the early child education and primary school level.

“A Government Digital Channel specifically set up to support the dissemination of information will also be used by M.E.S.C. to deliver its scheduled programs for students,” added the Ministry. “A detailed schedule of times and subjects is made available on the M.E.S.C. website and Facebook for parents and all students to follow through.”

A schedule of the times and the school subjects that will be aired on the 2AP Radio Station can be viewed and downloaded by parents and students from the M.E.S.C. website and Facebook page. 

The MESC press release is the first official announcement by the Government to deliver education to school children after the closure of classes, despite concerns by members of the public, including a teacher and a village mayor of the shortcomings that platforms such as the internet and radio have in Samoa.

Amaile village mayor, Tupuivao Posigi Tauiliili, told Samoa Observer last month that they cannot receive radio transmission signals and the start-up cost of the Government’s Digital TV package was too expensive for his people. 

On online education in Samoa, Savai’i-based teacher Ryan Nemes said Samoan students will need time to adapt to virtual learning and internet accessibility is a major hurdle.

Questions sent to the M.E.S.C. seeking its comment were not responded to at the time of going to press.