Japan Handover Facilities for Savai’i USP Centre

Apia, Samoa – 20 December 2023: Yesterday (19 December) marked a significant leap forward for the community of Savai’i as Japan handed over the improved facilities at the Savai’i Centre of the University of the South Pacific (USP).

The project cost USD185,862 (approximately SAT499,000 tala) provided under Japans Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Samoa, H.E. Mr. SENTA Keisuke handed over the new Savai’i Centre to Professor Pal Ahluwhalia, Vice Chancellor and President of USP in the presence of Aeau Chris Hazelman, CEO, Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture, community members and distinguished guests.

Ambassador H.E. Mr. SENTA Keisuke (third from left) with distinguished guests at the handover ceremony

The project was dedicated to the renovation of the existing centre building and toilet block, encompasses comprehensive repairs to roofing, ceiling, walling, flooring and more.

The Savai’i Centre, now enhanced through Japan’s assistance, will be a beacon of knowledge accessible to the broader community. Moreover, this signifies Japan’s commitment to not only supporting academic endeavors but also fostering a spirit of inclusivity, allowing the benefits of education to reach far and wide.

Japan’s GGP programme embodies Japan’s commitment to fostering human security and addressing the specific needs of communities since its inception in 1991.