Uafato Primary School gets $30,000 upgrade from German Government

Apia, Samoa – November 2025: The Uafato Primary School in the remote Fagaloa Bay, has received a $30,000 tala upgrade from the German Government with the Village School Committee providing the labour for the project.

The project was dedicated this week.

The German Consul in Samoa, Afoa Stefan Szegedi, said the assistance is part of the German government’s support towards the education sector in Samoa and over the past years the German Embassy in Wellington provided assistance to various schools in the country.

Afoa highlighted that supporting education, particularly in remote and isolated regions such as Uafato has been a key priority since his appointment as Honorary Consul in November last year.

“Every child, no matter where they live, deserves the same opportunities for education and a bright future,” he said.

“This project demonstrates the on-going and meaningful cooperation between Germany and Samoa, which continues to grow across education, culture, climate resilience, and community development,” said Afoa.

Fuimaono Vaitolo Ofoia (2nd from Right) with the Village church minister, the Village School Committee members and German Government officials at the project opening this week.

The Uafato Primary School project celebration was also attended by Patrick Dzierzon, the First Secretary of the German Embassy in Wellington.

“Education plays an essential role in shaping a brighter future of our world. Not only does education allow children to grow into empowered adults, but it builds resilient communities who are able to stand together and find solutions for the challenges of tomorrow,” Dzierzon said.

Afoa also acknowledged the critical efforts of Fuimaono Vaitolo Ofoia, who invited him to Uafato in June last year and helped drive the project forward.

“This initial visit to Uafato together with former Honorary Consul Tagaloa Christa Szegedi highlighted the need for improved school facilities and inspired the collaboration that led to today’s achievements,” said Afoa.

Afoa has reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting education and community development in Samoa, particularly in villages where resources are limited but the community spirit remains strong.