The Faga Primary School in Savai'i welcomed the opening of newly reconstructed facilities on Thursday thanks to assistance made possible through the Government of Japan. 

The facilities handed over included eight newly reconstructed classrooms, a staff room, library and a computer room as well as a new lavatory block funded under the Embassy of Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (G.G.P.).

A press statement issued by the Embassy stated that Japan provided the School Committee with a USD$202,656 (approximately SAT$513,000) grant in March this year.

The new school facilities will replace an old two-storey building which was built in 1992. 

With a school roll of about 220 students with eight teachers, the educational institution will benefit directly benefit from this project that will provide an equal and competent learning opportunity for the students attending the school.

The Government of Japan through its Embassy in Apia has continuously dedicated grant assistance to major capital development projects such as schools which are in need of refurbished or new facilities throughout Samoa. 

A handover ceremony to celebrate the completion of the project was held at the Faga Primary School compound. It was attended by Japan's Ambassador to Samoa, Senta Keisuke and the Minister of Education Sports and Culture, Seuula Ioane as well as the Associate Minister of Health and Member for Faasaleleaga No. 4 Tea Tooala Peato. 

Representatives from the Ministry of Education Sports and Culture, parents, teachers and students were all present during the handover ceremony. 

Japan believes education plays critical key role in socio-economic development and has continued to assist schools in Samoa through its grant scheme.