Samoa

Samoa

Samoa boasts one of the most stable and healthy economies in the Pacific region, according to the World Bank. The poverty rate, once just over 26 percent, has dropped closer to 20 percent as the country strives to meet the UN Millennium Development Goals, a blueprint driving efforts to meet the needs of the world’s poorest. Although Samoa has made impressive progress in social development, many rural communities in the country grapple with an unequal distribution of wealth and benefits. Poorer communities in remote parts of the islands are particularly vulnerable, especially in areas most likely to be affected by cyclones or other natural disasters. Gender inequality is apparent as women strive and often fail to find the same work and income opportunities as men and youth find it increasingly difficult to find livable wage employment in the country. Salesian programs in Samoa are working to provide youth with an education and training as well as the necessary resources to find and keep employment.

Featured Mission

Provide technical & vocational training

Salesian missionaries in Samoa are providing education and technical skills training to help disadvantaged youth find and retain employment. Two Salesian schools, Don Bosco Technical Center in Alafua and the Don Bosco High School/Vocational Center at Salelologa, provide educational opportunities for students whose parents are unable to provide financial assistance for their education.

Don Bosco Technical Center in Alafua was established in 1998, and currently has 245 young men from Samoa and Tokelau as students. Students have the opportunity to choose from either a general or specialized trade training. The technical training is complemented by courses in Samoan and English languages, mathematics, technical drawing, computer studies and religion.

In addition, the center promotes personal, moral and spiritual growth, skills leadership development and teamwork through cultural and sporting activities. The students at Don Bosco learn skills that are in demand in Samoa. Upon graduation, many secure work almost immediately, which is a significant achievement in a country with high unemployment.

The Don Bosco High School/Vocational Center at Salelologa has more than 300 students. Many come from remote villages on a school bus made available through the school. The center offers an integrated curriculum with academic and technical subjects designed to provide students with employment and human relations skills as well as self-reliance.