One of the biggest and most influential schools in the country, Samoa College, has a new Principal.

Karene Fa'asisila, who was previously the School's Vice Principal, has taken over from long-serving educator, Malaeulu Papali'i Reupena Rimoni, who has retired as the school's Head Master after serving the school for more than 30 years.

During an interview with Ms. Fa'asisila, she told the Samoa Observer she was extremely grateful for the opportunity.

"I give thanks to God and I also give acknowledge the support from Mr. Rimoni, our previous principal, the Board and the students and staff," Ms. Fa'asisila said.

The new Principal said she is keen to continue the good work that the school has been doing over the years. She is particularly keen on providing equal learning opportunities to all students who enter the gates at the school's Vaivase compound.

The Chairman of the Samoa College Board, Lealailepule Rimoni Aiafi, congratulated Ms. Fa'asilisila. 

“The Board is delighted to have [Ms Fa'asisila] as the head of the school now as she has been the vice-Principal for quite a while," Lealailepule said.

“This is good news for the school. She brings valuable experience and her vast knowledge in education is why her appointment is vital.”

Ms. Fa'asisila is a former student of Samoa College. 

Established in 1953, the Samoa College is co-educational and teaches from years 9 to 13.

Lealailepule said the Board is confident the new Principal is well equiped and committed to navigate the challenges that come with the role and take the school to another level.

“This is a great time for her to lead the school as she would see through all these major challenges now and also the transformation into digital education," Lealailepule said. “That’s the way forward and she is going to embark on that to try and educate students and teachers on the next level of education."

A few years ago, the Government ceded the administration of Samoa College to the Samoa College Old Pupils Association (S.C.O.P.A).