SAMOA, July 9 - “Enhancing Youth Learning Experience through Continuing Education Approaches”

Apia, Samoa – Tuesday 9th July 2024

The National University of Samoa (NUS) and the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen their partnership in enhancing youth learning experiences through continuing education approaches.

The NUS Youth Project, funded by COL, aims to develop the employability skills, attitudes, and values necessary for a sustainable future among selected 150 youths aged 15-24 years. The project focuses on building transferable skills and attributes, aligning with the National University of Samoa’s vision to provide quality education and training that prepares students for the workforce.

The project is closely linked to TVET and the “Build4Skills” concept, leveraging TVET for employment, decent work, and lifelong learning. It also aligns with the Samoa National Action Plan on Youth Employment, which aims to increase youth jobs, promote pathways to sustainable employment, and safeguard a trained pipeline of talent for the private sector and economy.

The agreement provides continuing education pathways, including certificate programs, non-formal learning courses, tailored formal micro-credentials, and a diploma in Youth Development. The program targets youth from both public and private sectors, as well as unemployed youth in rural communities.

“We are excited to partner with COL on this project,” said Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa, Vice-Chancellor and President of the National University of Samoa. ” Through this collaborative effort, we aim to equip our young Samoan leaders with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to succeed in the workforce, while promoting a culture of lifelong learning and continuous skill development.

“The Commonwealth of Learning is committed to supporting the development of youth in Samoa,” said Professor Peter Scott, President and CEO of COL. “We are pleased to support this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the lives of young people in Samoa.”

The project will be delivered by our Oloamanu Centre for Professional Development and Continuing Education at NUS and with close collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, National Youth Council, and Samoa Umbrella of NGOs to solicit committed youths from communities as well as the private and public sectors.

Youth consultations for Upolu and Savaii will commence from the 16th – 18th of July 2024, with the involvement of representatives from each of the 51 District Development Committees to ensure the sustainability of the project and youth engagement.

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SOURCE – The National University of Samoa