School hygiene project launched

By Adel Fruean 06 March 2021, 3:00PM

A project to improve hygienic conditions for the more than 300 students of Vailele Primary School was launched on Friday.

The project was funded by the German Embassy in Wellington.

The Embassy contributed close to $17,500 worth of floor tiles, wash basins and hand sanitisers.


The partnership project is designed to improve the learning environment for the school’s 315 students and teachers; before the project, all classrooms had just a concrete floor. 

But new floor tiles in all eight classrooms will ensure a cleaner, germ-free learning environment, by limiting the control and spread of infectious diseases, those at the project’s launch were told. 

An additional three new wall-mounted washbasins will also give the students and teachers better access to water for handwashing; hand sanitisers are also provided as part of the upgrade. 


A small ceremony was held to mark the occasion which was attended by the German Consul to Samoa, Tagaloa Christa Szegedi, and the caretaker Minister of Education Sports and Culture, Loau Keneti Sio. 

Tagaloa said that the project was made possible with support from Stefan Krawielicki, the Ambassador of Germany in New Zealand.

She also acknowledged technical assistance provided by Wera Hack from the country’s New Zealand Embassy. 


“In October 2020 my office was approached by Vailele Primary School about a potential partnership which we were able to put into action,” she said.

She also congratulated Vailele Primary School’s Principal, Resitala Tofilau, and school President Te’omatavui Maisa for their leadership and work in completing the project. 

“I am also thrilled at your idea together with your team to paint the school. Your dedication and hard work for the school certainly need to be commended," she said. 


“When I became the German Consul to Samoa in June 2019, one of my goals was to provide as much support as possible directly to schools in Samoa. 

“No effort should be spared in providing the children of Samoa the tools they need for a better education.

“Vailele Primary School is the seventh project we were able to support since I took office.

“There is always a lot of work going on behind the scene with a partnership like the one we have with Vailele Primary School.”

She said that the project was not only to the benefit of students but would deepen ties between the two nations. 

“As you know Samoa and Germany have always enjoyed a close and special relationship together. With today’s ceremony I hope it will continue to build on this relationship,” she said.

“It is important that we all work together to combat the challenges and difficulties brought about due to COVID-19. 

“To the students, I wish you to please make the best of this opportunity to learn in a safer and more hygienic environment.

“What you learn in school will play a vital role in shaping the person you will become one day.”

Tagaloa also wished the Principal and teachers of Vailele Primary School well. 

“Being a teacher certainly is a very noble profession,” she said. 

Loau thanked the German Government and its people for the assistance.

“We have a long history with Germany; we hope that you continue this assistance for other schools in need,” he said. 

By Adel Fruean 06 March 2021, 3:00PM
Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>