A show of vocational art-works by fifteen students with intellectual disabilities has proven quite popular with families and friends at the Fiamalamalama School, Alafua. So much so most of the products have been sold.

Some of the works included handicrafts, ie-lavalava printing, plastic and paper flowers and more - including gardening.

School Principal, Sharon Suhren, said they were immensely proud of the work put in by the students.

She said they wanted to teach students so that they too are able to create products where they can make money from, just like others.

“And today, we have witnessed how well they did not only in impressing the public especially their families who have participated in today’s programme but essentially in how they do the work.”

The majority of handicrafts were sold to families and friends of the school who witnessed the event.

The eldest of fifteen students at the school is 27-years-old.

Some of the students who have graduated from Aoga Fiamalamalama are now enjoying normal lives with paid jobs, according to the Principal.

One of them became a receptionist, some work at companies like Uncle Johnny’s (Ice-cream factory), one has become an apprentice for his father’s company, and the list goes on.

It's the kind of outcome that fuels Ms. Suhren's passion to develop the students and give them the best opportunity at life.

One of those former students is Fetoai Togia. He graduated and stayed at the school to supervise sports and other suitable activities. He is paid for his work and is treated like all other staff members.

“We’ve seen his abilities in sports and those things that suit him and he wanted to stay and work here so we let him,” Ms. Suhren said.