The Embassy of Japan has approved grants totalling SAT$1.18 million for a college and a primary school to fund the construction of new student and staff facilities.

The signing ceremony for the two grants was held at the Embassy in Apia on Thursday morning with the funding coming from Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects. 

Japan's Ambassador to Samoa, Senta Keisuke signed the grant agreements with the representatives of Avele College and Lalomalava Primary School, according to a press release issued by the Embassy.

The Avele College School Committee on the island of Upolu received a grant of up to USD$222,517 (SAT$601,000) for the reconstruction of its school hall with a stage, kitchen, and toilets.

The college's existing hall has already been demolished due to its dilapidated condition. This reconstruction project aims to provide a suitable space for the college’s students, teachers, staff members, and the wider community.

Lalomalava Primary School Committee in Savai'i received a grant of up to USD$215,301 (SAT$582,000) for the reconstruction of their existing building. This will include eight new classrooms, a library, a principal's room, a staff room, reception, and toilets. 

The school has been grappling with numerous infrastructure issues due to natural disasters and its aging school building. This project is expected to provide a safer and improved environment for its students, teachers, and staff.

The Embassy said in its press release that the grant approvals reaffirmed the government of Japan's commitment to assisting the development of education at the grass-roots level across Samoa. According to the Embassy, the Japan government will continue to support and assist small-scale projects directly benefitting the community at the grass-roots level as well as contributing to the socio-economic development of Samoa.