NUS Launches Project to Remove Single Use Plastics

NUS Campus, 14 June 2025 – A project to promote the environmental benefits through the reduction of single use plastics was handed over earlier today at the National University of Samoa.

The project, “Changing Mindsets: Removal of Single Use Plastics in the National University of Samoa” included the installation of 10 water stations in the National University of Samoa and provide 1300 reusable water bottles, funded under UK’s International Development Programme.

The project, valued at a grant of £ 29,631 (approximately SAT104,350), has provided the students at the National University of Samoa with access to free, cool, filtered drinking water and an opportunity to change mindsets of immediate family members and promoting environmental benefits through the reduction of single use plastics.

Apart from the project, the Acting High Commissioner, Mr. Daniel Garlick officially handover a selection of books from Her Majesty the Queen for the National University of Samoa’s library.

Their Majesties the King and Queen visited the NUS during CHOGM last October and sent five books for the library at NUS. Her Majesty the Queen is an avid reader and is an advocate to celebrate and promote the power and benefits of reading.

Mr. Daniel Garlick spoke about the significance of this project in continuing the ongoing relationship and collaboration between the National University of Samoa and UK.

“We are proud of the UK’s on-going collaboration with the National University of Samoa. A year ago, we were preparing for the visit of Their Majesties to NUS as part of CHOGM. Our project in partnership with Pure Pacific Water in providing water stations and reusable water bottles to NUS is tangible example of how we can work together to change mindsets and protect the fragile environment in Samoa,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Samoa, Tuifuisa’a Dr. Patila Malua Amosa acknowledging the donation by UK.

“On behalf of the University, I extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of water stations and water bottles and also books to our university community and that contribution is significant towards enhancing the learning environment and especially the wellbeing of our students,” said Professor Tuifuisa’a.

“The books also will enrich our library resources, providing invaluable knowledge and fostering culture of learning and academic excellence,” she said.

UK’s International Development Programme Fund is designed to meet the diverse needs and support community-based projects that directly benefit local population. This project assured to continue to strengthen bilateral relations between Samoa and the United Kingdom during by focusing on our shared goals of social and economic development.