As the new school year approaches, students and parents in Samoa are preparing to return to classrooms with a mix of excitement, challenges, and determination.

For mothers like Vaifoa Pitesa Faapale, balancing family responsibilities while supporting her children’s education can be demanding. 

“My husband is the one who supported us from overseas. He worked hard to send us money to satisfy our needs and wants,” Faapale said. She added that managing time, handling distractions, and balancing school with other life responsibilities, such as work and family matters, can sometimes be a struggle. 

Despite the challenges, Faapale hopes her children will focus on their studies. “I hope they will study hard to become successful in the future,” she said. Her children, she noted, are excited about returning to school. 

Other students are also preparing to embark on their educational journeys. Faasu Sapunaoa, who is set to enrol at the National University of Samoa this year, shared her approach to preparing for the new school year. 

“Back to school plans typically involve preparing for the upcoming school year, reviewing course materials, gathering supplies, and organising individual items,” she said. 

Faasu added that returning to school can sometimes be frustrating due to various challenges, including personal growth and the desire to manage multiple responsibilities.

For Annfereni Sene, the return to school represents an opportunity to advance her knowledge in her chosen field. “I am ready to go back to school,” she said. “I want to achieve more knowledge about my course, tourism and hospitality.” 

Annfereni's focus reflects the broader determination among students to maximise learning opportunities and prepare for future careers.

As the academic year approaches, parents and students alike are focusing on preparation, planning, and motivation. From organising school supplies to reviewing course materials, the start of school is a time for renewed commitment to education and personal growth. For families like the Faapale, and students such as Faasu and Annfereni, the anticipation of returning to school comes with both excitement and determination to succeed in the year ahead.

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