This week has been all about learning and sharing as we broaden our knowledge during Samoa Language Week. The theme for Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa - Samoa Language Week 2023 is ‘Mitamita i lau gagana, maua’a lou fa’asinomaga’ which means ‘Be proud of your language and grounded in your identity’. 

Keke Pua'a (pork buns) and Pani Popo (coconut rolls) were on the menu as students and staff were greeted in Samoan. The meaai (food) was suamalie (delicious)! Thank you to our students who spent time preparing, cooking and serving us a part of your identity!

Activities such as learning colours, days of the week, emotions and the of learning basic greetings were a common thread across the school in all year levels.

The Samoan language has many components; there is simple Samoan, and there is more complex Samoan; there is everyday language and then there is respectful language; there is language specific to young people, and then language that pertains to chiefs and orators. The Samoan language has depth.

This year’s theme for Samoa Language Week is encouraging use of the whole of the Samoan language, from the language most fitting for young people, to the Samoan language used with adults and older Samoans. Whatever stage you are at on your language journey, and how well you can speak and understand Samoan, it is important to continue to use it daily so that the Samoan language thrives. Only then will you be proud of your language, and only then will your identity as a Samoan be grounded in your mind, body and soul.