Hundreds of public servants gathered in front of the Government Building to mark Public Service Day and were acknowledged for their "spirit of service" to the country.

Public officials from various sectors of the Government's ministries and agencies proudly marched in different coloured uniforms from Police Headquarters to Government Building on Friday morning. 

Acting Prime Minister, Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio acknowledged the public servants for their role in the development of the country over the years. 

He spoke about Samoa's journey from being a least developed state to a developing nation with public officials taking on the role of system stewards who worked with the leadership of the Government of the day and the people of Samoa to get to where they are now. 

Tuala took time to honour the memory of pioneer public servants who passed on as well as those who retired to  pave the way for the next generation of public servants. 

Guided by the theme "spirit of service," Tuala reminded of a speech he delivered on the same theme last year.

“I spoke about what it means to be a public servant with a true spirit of service; I quote – a spirit of service is one that puts the needs of the country and your agency clients, before yours,” he recalled.

“It’s about selfless giving. Its ensuring that you’re not in the public service for personal gain or benefit but because you have the skills and knowledge, to contribute to the betterment of Samoa, and for the greater good of our people.”  

Tuala told the officials that the celebration was to celebrate each and everyone of those serving and working in public offices in various sectors. 

“Yet all too often your chores are taken for granted by those do not recognise the value of your services being rendered, your services is being acknowledged today,” he said. 

“With the onset covid-19 pandemic in 2020 our country and public service in particular had never faced sterner challenges as it did, even now so much uncertainty which are probably most of the threats that public administration could encounter. 

“As public servants you delivered in the face of adversity with very minimal resources, with unprecedented highs and lows, came together as one public service from across all sectors in coordinated manner to serve our country even in the most challenging circumstances. 

“For that I thank you, we thank you…” 

The public servants were given a half day on Friday allowing them to host activities to commemorate the day.