In recent weeks, the success stories of Samoans have been celebrated. We have heard and witnessed many stories from college and university graduates. We have witnessed the power of education.

A little over two and a half months remain until the nation goes to the polls. In this time, we will get to hear and read about the various party manifestos and election promises. It would be interesting to see what parties and candidates have to say about education. What would be their strategy to deliver the goals needed to ensure that education becomes a priority?

These stories have been local and from abroad. From students achieving milestones locally to those fighting against all odds to make it to a place that was once just a dream. it is always a good feeling when Samoans make international achievements.

Education remains a big expense for any family. This expense is also the reason why many students are unable to finish school. The $500 per person allowance does not cover this. Many more Samoans can attain success if they can access affordable and quality education. This is the only way to address the persistent lack of labour and skills in health, education, legal, commercial, hospitality, and many other sectors.

There is a shortage of doctors, teachers and other skilled workers. Imagine not having this problem. The nation has been without a forensic pathologist for years now. Access to education can help solve this problem. The Office of the Attorney General is lacking in lawyers as well. The shortage of skilled labour has us looking abroad. These are positions that can be filled by locals only if they can access education. The argument for making education free outweighs the debate against it.

The government, district councils, churches, and families must make a rigorous effort to focus on education. Education is the answer to social issues such as poverty, and labour shortage and it will make Samoa a better nation. Free education carries the potential for significant economic impact, notably by fostering a more qualified workforce and alleviating financial strains associated with higher education. Free education initiatives can lead to a rise in university enrollment and graduation rates, as seen in various studies and practical implementations.

This translates into a larger pool of skilled workers entering the workforce, which is critical for the sustained growth of the economy. With more educated individuals, industries can innovate faster and remain competitive.

Free education stands as a cornerstone for a more equitable society, providing a foundation for individuals to reach their full potential without the barrier of cost. It fosters an inclusive culture where access to knowledge and the ability to contribute meaningfully to society are viewed as inalienable rights. Free education mitigates the socioeconomic disparities that often dictate the quality and level of education one can attain.

When tuition fees are eliminated, individuals from lower-income families are afforded the same educational opportunities as their wealthier counterparts, leading to a more level playing field. Expanding educational access enables all members of society to pursue a wider array of careers and life paths, broadening personal choices and promoting a diverse workforce.

This is why the incoming government needs to make education free. This will lift the burden on many families whose biggest expense aside from the faalavelave is education and ensure that more children can get educated. The importance of an educated population cannot be stressed enough. Maybe it would be better to redirect the $51 million annually towards paying school fees and increasing teachers’ salaries. Recognising education as a human right underpins the movement for free education. All children should have access to quality, inclusive, and free education.

Politicians have always attempted to leave a legacy, free education could be just the right one.